Pears Belle Helene

1. Peel the pears, leaving the stalks in place and remove the cores.
2. Place the sugar, water, lemon, orange and wine in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved.
3. Increase heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the pears and allow to simmer, covered with a square of parchment paper, in the liquid for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Remove from the heat and leave to cool in the liquid for at least 2 hours or the next day is best to allow the flavours to infuse.
6. In the meantime, prepare the chocolate sauce. Add the cream to the saucepan and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Break up the chocolate and place in a heat proof bowl.
8. Pour the boiled cream over the chocolate and stir gently to make a sauce.
9. Keep covered with cling film and warm until needed.
10. To serve, fan out the pears, leaving the stalks intact.
11. Arrange a cocktail glass, add some whipped cream and the fanned pears.
12. Drizzle a little of the chocolate sauce over each one – the remainder can be served in a small jug separately.
13. Served with oodles of your favorite ice cream.

*Check Coeliac Society of Ireland Food List for gluten free brands.