Maple Ginger Pearsauce

Peel the pears and cut into 1-inch cubes (you should have about 8 cups).

Put the pears, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, and water into a medium pot. Stir well and set over high heat. When the liquid comes to a boil, drop the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer.

Cook the pears, stirring occasionally, until they are tender enough to mash with a fork, about 20 minutes. Be sure that a little liquid remains in the bottom of the pot at all times. If not, add a tablespoon or two of water as needed. If quite a bit of juice remains when the pears are nearly cooked, remove the lid and turn up the heat so excess liquid evaporates.

Transfer the pears to a blender or food processor and puree until silky smooth. Pour into a bowl or storage container and refrigerate. The sauce will firm up as it cools.

Makes about 4 1/2 cups.