Pears with Bay Leaves & Cherries

Peel pears and cut in half lengthwise. Remove cores with a melon baller or spoon and cut each half lengthwise into thirds.

Place the pear segments in a large saucepan and add wine, sour cherries (or cranberries), sugar and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and simmer gently over low heat until the pears are tender when pierced with a knife, 5 to 10 minutes.

Remove the fruit to a serving bowl with a slotted spoon, discarding bay leaves. Bring the remaining poaching liquid to a boil over high heat and cook until reduced to 1/2 cup, about 12 minutes. Spoon over the fruit.