Caramelized Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Halve pears lengthwise; remove cores.
2. 2
   Place sugar on a plate.
3. 3
   Heat a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium.
4. 4
   Press cut side of each halved pear in sugar, then place, cut side down, in skillet (fit will be snug).
5. 5
   Cook (uncovered) until sugared sides are beginning to brown, 7 to 8 minutes.
6. 6
   Pour water into skillet.
7. 7
   Cover; simmer until pears are tender when pierced with the tip of a sharp knife, 5 to 10 minutes (depending on ripeness), adding more water if sugar begins to burn.
8. 8
   Remove pears from skillet with a slotted spoon.
9. 9
   If liquid in pan is thin, simmer until thickened to a sauce-like consistency; if it is very thick, add more water.
10. 10
    Serve sauce over pears.