
3 c red wine
4 oz sugar
1 stick cinnamon
6 whole cloves
6 whole allspice
1 TB grated orange zest
1 TB grated lemon zest
4 firm, ripe pears, stems attached
Heat wine and all ingredients except pears in saucepan. Simmer gently for a few minutes until sugar has completely dissolved, stirring occasionally.
Cut bottom off pears so they will stand up. Peel pears, leaving stems attached. Place pears in saucepan of wine, cover, and poach gently for 20 to 30 minutes or until they are very tender, turning occasionally.
Strain the wine mixture, if desired. Return to pan and simmer gently until thickened. Pour over the pears. Serve with cream (optional).