Sauteed Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Cut the pears in half lengthwise, leaving the stem intact.
2. 2
   Cut each half into 1-inch wedges.
3. 3
   (Dont remove the core.)
4. 4
   Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise down the center, and use a paring knife to scrape the seeds and pulp onto the butter.
5. 5
   To make sure not to lose any of the seeds, run your vanilla-coated knife through the butter.
6. 6
   Heat a large saute pan over high heat for 2 minutes.
7. 7
   Add the butter, vanilla, and vanilla pod to the pan.
8. 8
   When the butter foams, place the pear wedges in the pan, cut side down.
9. 9
   Season with the salt and cook 2 minutes.
10. 10
    Sprinkle the sugar over the pears, and shake the pan to distribute the sugar and help it caramelize in the butter.
11. 11
    Cook the pears about 6 minutes, basting them often with the butter, until theyre caramelized on the first side.
12. 12
    Carefully turn the pears over and cook another 3 to 4 minutes, continuing to baste, until the second side is golden and the pears are tender but not mushy.
13. 13
    Transfer them to a platter and keep them in a warm place.