To make the wine syrup, in a 3-quart saucepan (or the size that holds your pears snuggly on their sides but not pressed together), combine the sugar, water, wine, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil over ...

I'm a sucker for desserts that feel elegant without requiring a ton of fancy cooking tricks. It may sound like a tall task, but a dessert like wine poached pears proves that it's possible. Fresh pears ...

There are fruits that are content to accompany, and others, like the pear, that know when to step up to the plate. Behind ...

1. Peel pears and leave stem intact. In a large saucepan, bring wine and an equal amount of cold water to a simmer. Split vanilla bean lengthwise and add to wine and water mixture. Add cinnamon sticks ...

It’s pear season and although they can be delicious eaten raw, they are also scrumptious when cooked. The poach-steep method makes fresh pears irresistible, especially if they are served garnished ...

This classic, French-inspired dessert is a showy finish to any meal. Instructions: In a 4-quart saucepan, combine wine, sugar, orange juice, zest, cinnamon stick and cloves. Bring to a boil, reduce ...

While out to dinner with my colleague and L.A. Times restaurant critic Bill Addison, we ordered an old-fashioned pear and blue cheese salad served over tender greens, which had just returned to the ...