Vanilla - Cider Poached Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Cut pears in half lengthwise and place them in one layer in a pan.
2. 2
   Cover with cider (start with 3 cups).
3. 3
   Add vanilla bean and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to low and cook until barely tender (8 to 10 minutes- time will vary depending on ripeness of pears)- test with wooden skewer.
5. 5
   Allow pears to cool in the cider (refrigerate overnight if you wish).
6. 6
   Thinly slice orange peel, removing all white pith.
7. 7
   Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave over low heat, stir in peel and stir to coat.
8. 8
   Arrange to dry on a rack or plate.
9. 9
   At serving time, serve each pear in a bowl with fresh orange juice and a sprinkle of candied peel.