Instructions: Poaching fruit is not a precise art but there are some tricks that will help you to achieve perfect results.

Choosing fruit for poaching does not involve a carefully timed visit to the greengrocers as pears peaches and apricots that have not quite reached their peak of perfection will happily do so when cajoled by a pan of simmering syrup. Fruit that is too ripe will fall apart.

When choosing pears look for fruit with a flat bottom so that it can be stood on end in the poaching liquid. If necessary slice the base for a level surface.

Clarify poaching syrup by adding some beaten egg white and bubble over a low heat for a few minutes. Pass through a conical strainer.

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