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Spiced poached peaches
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Spiced Poached Peaches

Adapted from BBC Food.
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 ripe peaches
  • 6 cups cold water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4 whole star anise
  • 4 thin slices fresh ginger, peeled
  • 1 cup fine natural cane sugar

Instructions

  • Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl (ice and water). Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score an X in the bottom of each peach. Place the peaches into a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Wait 30 seconds, then transfer peaches to the ice bath. Let the peaches sit in the ice bath for about a minute, then drain and peel using a sharp knife.
  • In a large saucepan, combine 6 cups water, cinnamon, star anise, ginger slices and sugar, stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has reduced by ⅔ (the mixture will start to thicken and resemble a thin syrup).
  • While the syrup is reducing, cut a parchment paper circle the same diameter as your sauce pan. Add the peaches to the syrup mixture and cover with the parchment paper. Cover the saucepan and cook the peaches on low for 15 – 20 minutes or until the peaches are cooked through*. Remove the peaches from the poaching liquid and set aside.
  • Increase heat to medium and boil the syrup until it reduces to about ¾ cup. Cool slightly before serving.
  • Slice peaches and serve with yogurt, ice cream or a panna cotta. Drizzle spiced syrup on top.

Notes

* Test the doneness of your peaches by piercing them with a fork or the tip of a knife.  If the peach offers no resistance, it is done!