Green Tea Poached Pears with Pistachio Cream Sauce

Green Tea Poached Asian Pears
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes, plus chilling time
Makes 4 servings

This refreshing dessert, edged with a hint of mint, works year round and provides a touch of luxury to a simple menu. Its complex taste belies its simple method of preparation.

• 4 unblemished Asian pears
• 1 cup turbinado sugar
• 2 cups freshly brewed green tea (e.g. Dragonwell)
• 1 2-inch piece fresh gingerroot, peeled and sliced into thin coins
• Peel of half a lemon
• 1 large sprig of fresh mint Garnish: fresh mint leaves, if desired

1. Peel the pears and core with a corer or a small paring knife, being sure to remove the tart center core area of each. Place the sugar, green tea, gingerroot, lemon peel and mint in a medium size saucepan large enough to hold the four pears in a single layer.
2. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to just under a boil, or until the sugar is fully dissolved. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the peeled and cored pears. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. The pears will remain firm. Cool to room temperature and then refrigerate, covered.

Meanwhile, make the Pistachio Cream Sauce.
Pistachio Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup nonfat plain yogurt, well drained
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup shelled, skinned, coarsely chopped natural pistachio nuts

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, buttermilk and maple syrup. Add nuts and store mixture in refrigerator until your guests are ready to eat.
2. Assembly: Remove pears from poaching liquid, drain well and place one each in four chilled goblets. Mask with the sauce and serve immediately, garnished with fresh mint leaves, if desired