Bartlett Pear 94024, Poached Pears

Bartlett Pear 94024
Originally uploaded by cabanagirl

This is a beautiful pear that I bought 6 days ago at Whole Foods Market. It has ripened to a beautiful greeny yellow. I know it is a Bartlett because of its PLU. Does anyone know what PLU is short for? I figure the P is produce. 

POACHED PEARS:

1/2 vanilla bean, split & scraped

1 bottle champagne or dry white wine

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 cup sugar

1 cinnamon stick

1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

zest of a lemon

firm but ripe Bartlett pears, peeled

1. In large saucepan over medium heat, combine vanilla bean & scraping with rest of ingredients except pears.  Bring to boil.

2. Add pears, lower heat, and cover with a pot lid slightly smaller than pan to keep pears submerged.  Cook until tender, 20 -30 minutes.  If necessary, turn pears gently so they cook evenly.

3. Transfer pears & liquid to a bowl, and refrigerated, covered, for at least 6 hours, preferable overnight.

Enjoy!

originally from Martha Stewart's Holidays