Caramelized Pears

Cut the pears in half and scoop out the core. Press pears cut side down in the sugar, then place cut side down in a skillet. You want to use a skillet just big enough to fit all the pears. When I make just 1 pear, I use a small sauce pan. Cook on medium heat until pears begin to turn brown, 8 minutes or so.

Add 1/2 cup water, cover and simmer until pears are tender, 5 to 10 minutes (depending on ripeness). Add more water if sugar begins to burn. When done, remove pears from skillet. If the liquid in the pan is thin, simmer until thickened to a sauce-like consistency. If it’s thick, add more water.

Serve pears with sauce. This is very good with ice cream or just drizzled with cream.