Wine Poached Seckel Pears

Ingredients

• 1  cinnamon sticks 
• 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar 
• 1 leaves mint chiffonade fresh
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream 
• 0.5 cup mascarpone cheese 
• 1 bottle merlot divided
• 6  seckel pears peeled
• 1  star anise 
• 0.5 cup sugar 

Equipment

• bowl
• sauce pan
• whisk

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, whisk together Merlot (reserving 2 cups), star anise, cinnamon stick, and sugar. Bring to a boil.
2. Add pears and remaining 2 cups of Merlot. Allow pears to cook in the wine and flavorings, simmering at a low boil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and cream.
4. Add fresh mint, if desired.
5. Place a dollop of mascarpone cheese onto each plate. Top with 1 or 2 pears and serve.