Step 1

Peel each pear from stem down. Sprinkle each pear with lemon juice to avoid browning while peeling the remaining pears.

Step 2

Place 2 cups sugar and 6 cups water in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved. Increase heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add pears and a split, seeded vanilla bean. Allow the pears to simmer, covered with a square of baking paper, in the liquid for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking. Serve pear warm or cooled with a little poaching liquid.