Poached Pears

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water, sugar, cinnamon stick, orange peel, and orange juice to a boil.

Step 2

Peel the pears, leaving the stem intact. Core the pears from the bottom using a corer or vegetable peeler.

Step 3

Add the pears to the simple syrup, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the pears are tender, but not mushy, about 15 minutes. Chill the pears in the syrup.

Step 4

Place the pear standing up on a dessert plate and drizzle with the chocolate sauce.

Step 5

Place the chocolate chips in a small bowl. Heat the heavy cream to hot, but not boiling in the microwave, about 15 to 20 seconds. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. Mix until smooth and serve.