• 1/2 bottle of red wine
• 1 vanilla bean
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 200gr / 7oz sugar
• 4 pears, peeled
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Freshly ground black pepper

In a skillet, heat gently wine, vanilla bean and seeds, cinnamon sticks, black pepper, nutmeg and sugar to dissolve the sugar. When the mixture scalds, add pears. Add some hot water if necessary to cover the pears. Simmer, uncovered, about 30 minutes.

Carefully remove pears. Add honey to the wine mixture. Cook 30 minutes, or until liquid has reduced to 1/3.

Arrange the fruits on individual bowls, spoon wine sauce around the fruits.