Aromatic Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Peel pears, taking care to take as little flesh as possible.
2. 2
   Leave stalk intact.
3. 3
   If necessary, cut a thin slice from the base of each pear so it will stand upright.
4. 4
   Place in large bowl and pour over the lemon juice with enough water to cover the bears.
5. 5
   Pour honey into a large pan with a lid.
6. 6
   Add chile, star anise, cinnamon stick, lemongrass, ginger, cloves, bay leaves and water.
7. 7
   Bring to a boil, ten reduce and simmer, stirring occsionally for 5 minutes, until honey has dissolved.
8. 8
   Drain pears and place in the pan.
9. 9
   Bring (almost) to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cover with lid.
10. 10
    Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until pears are tender.
11. 11
    remove pan from heat and let pears cool in the syrup.
12. 12
    When cool, remove from pan and place in a serving dish.
13. 13
    Return the syrup to hte heat and bring to a boil.
14. 14
    Boil for 5-8 minutes, or until reduced by half and syrup has thickened.
15. 15
    Let cool for 5-10 minutes, then pour over the pears and serve.