Christmas is on the way and we all know what that means- it is time to stuff our bellies with all the delectable Christmas treats we can get our hands on! Whether it’s mince pies, mulled wine, mulled cider or some Yule log, we all love the vast array of treats that the festive season brings.
To save some of the pennies, here is a simple recipe for some delicious spiced pickled pears. Not only are they spicy and delicious, but they are light and fruity, creating a sometimes much need break from all the cakes and pastries. This recipe makes about 3-4 jars of spiced pickled pears, which can be kept for up to 6 months!
Ingredients:
1.5 kg of ripe, firm pears
1 unwaxed orange, peeled zest of
5cm fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
1 whole cinnamon stick
3 whole star anise
1 tsp allspice berries
1 tsp whole cloves
450 ml white wine vinegar
250g granulated sugar
Method:
1) Peel the pears and neatly slice into halves, removing the core by scooping it out with a teaspoon. Place the pears into a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
2) Remove the pears from the pan and measure 600ml of the boiled water into a jug. Tip away the excess water, and then return the 600ml to the pan, adding the orange zest, ginger and spices. Bring the mixture to the boil and then add the vinegar and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Return to the boil and cook for a couple more minutes.
3) Add the pears to the pan, and cook for 10 minutes or until they are just tender when is skewer is inserted in the middle.
4) Remove from the heat and transfer the pears to sterilised jars. Pour over the liquid to completely cover the pears, and seal. Keep in a cook dark place for about 4 weeks.