Making Pears in Nightshirts

Pears in nightshirts, also known as 'Pears Belle Hélène', is a classic French dessert that features poached pears covered in chocolate sauce and served with vanilla ice cream. Here's a recipe that includes a meringue topping:

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe pears, peeled and cored
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 4 egg whites
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate sauce
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and vanilla bean. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the pears and lemon juice to the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the pears simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the pears from the pot with a slotted spoon, and let them cool on a plate.
5. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add in the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat the mixture until it forms stiff peaks.
6. Place the pears in individual ramekins or a baking dish, and spoon the meringue over the pears.
7. Bake the pears in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
8. To serve, place a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each pear, and drizzle with the chocolate sauce.

Enjoy your delicious and elegant Pears in Nightshirts with a fluffy meringue topping!