Festive Poached Pears

Instructions

Pour the wine, water and sugar into a large pot, tip in the star anise, cardamom pods and cinnamon stick and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, peel the pears but leave the stem attached and carefully remove the core from the bottom of the pear while keeping the pear intact.

Carefully place the pears into the wine mixture, reduce the heat, cover and simmer for an hour or until the pears are soft but still sturdy. Leave to cool and place in the fridge over night.

To serve, bring to room temperature, place one pear into a bowl and drizzle with the wine mixture.

Melt the chocolate, slowly pour in the milk until a smooth sauce forms, drizzle over the pear and sprinkle with chopped nuts.