Caramelized Rum Pears

Caramelized Rum Pears

There are some beautiful pears in the markets right now.   I picked up a rather generous bag at Costco a couple of weeks ago and knew I could find something creative to do with some of these pears before they turned bad.   The Red Anjou Pears (or Beurré d’Anjou) has a deep red skin that darkens as it ripens.    What I really like about this variety of pear is that the texture is not grainy and they aren’t as sweet as other varieties.  They’re perfect for fresh snacking, but also for this recipe in which I’m adding sugar.  Other types of pears may be too sweet for this (personal preference).  

I’ve slightly modified a recipe from the Martha Stewart Living site, which calls for Bartlett pears.   It’s a great recipe as is, but my second rendition of these delicious pears I’ve made some additions:

• Used Anjou Pears.
• Added Rum to the sugar mixture.
• Added a generous pinch of cinnamon to the sugar mixture.

Caramelized Rum Pears

Serves 2

Ingredients

2 red Anjou pears

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Pinch of ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon rum

1/3 cup water

Directions

Halve pears lengthwise.  Remove cores using a melon baller or medium-sized cookie scoop.  

Mix sugar and cinnamon on a plate. 

Heat a skillet (that has a lid) large enough for your four slices of halved pears.   Place each pear halves, sliced side in the sugar mixture and generously coat.   Place the pear halves, cut side down, in the skillet.   Cook uncovered until the pears start to brown (caramelize), about 5-8 minutes (your time will vary depending on how hot your pan is).

When the pears start to brown, slowly add water and rum to the skillet.   Cover and simmer until the pears are tender, about 5-10 minutes.   Use a wood toothpick to pierce the pears in the thickest area of the fruit’s body to check for tenderness.   Add more water to prevent sugar from burning.    When pears are done, remove from pan.   Continue simmering the remaining liquid if it has not thickened.   Use the thickened liquid as a sauce to serve over the pears.

This is so delicious served as is, it really doesn’t need any whipped cream or ice cream.

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