Ginger Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Use a saucepan that has a cover and is large enough to hold the pears upright in a single layer.
2. 2
   Place the water, sugar, rind, and juice in the saucepan and stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil; stir in the ginger and set aside.
3. 3
   With a vegetable peeler, peel the pears; if necessary, trim the bottoms a bit so they will stand upright.
4. 4
   Place the pears in the syrup, cover, and cook over medium heat; baste the pears frequently (a ladle is handy for this since the ginger might get stuck in a bulb baster).
5. 5
   Do not over cook; test with a cake tester or toothpick; when they pierce easily they are done; start testing after 20 minutes.
6. 6
   When the pears are just tender, transfer them with a slotted spoon to a shallow bowl.
7. 7
   Add the marmalade to the syrup and let boil for 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Then add in the cognac, and pour the hot sauce over the pears.
9. 9
   With a ladle or large spoon baste occasionally until cool; cover and refrigerate.
10. 10
    Serve each pear standing upright in a compote or dessert bowl, with several spoonfuls of the syrup.