Poached Pears In Saffron Citrus Syrup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
1/2 teaspoon saffron thread, firmly packed
3/4 cup superfine sugar
2 teaspoons lemon rind, grated
4 pears, peeled
biscotti, to serve

Preparation

Place the first 4 ingredients in a large saucepan with 2 cups of water.
Heat, stirring, over low heat until the sugar has dissolved.
Bring to the boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
Add the pears and cook, covered for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through.
Remove pears from liquid, and bring it back to boil, uncovered.
Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the syrup has reduced by half.
Remove the vanilla bean and drizzle syrup over the pears.
Serve with biscotti.