POACHED PEARS WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE

Preparation Method :

• Peel the pears, leaving the stalks intact. Scoop out the cores from the base and then brush the pears all over with lemon juice to prevent them from browning.
• Place the sugar and 300 ml of water in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved.
• Add the pears and cinnamon stick with remaining lemon juice and some more water till the pears are completely covered.
• Bring to the boil, lower the heat, cover with a lid and simmer for about 10 - 15 minutes or until the pears are tender.
• Chocolate Sauce: Place the chocolate, butter and water in a saucepan and stir over a moderate heat until the chocolate and butter have melted. Allow to cool a little and then stir in the brandy.
• Remove the pears with a slotted spoon from the syrup, transfer to the serving dish and keep warm. Boil the syrup over a high heat until reduced to half.
• Remove the cinnamon stick and stir it into the chocolate sauce. Pour the sauce over the pears and serve.