Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family and cook.
About the recipe
Pêra bêbeda is a traditional dessert that makes the most of seasonal fruit and aromatic red wine.
Slow cooking lets the fruit take on the colour and aroma of the syrup.
As with many Portuguese recipes, there are variations by region, family and cook — with port, cinnamon or anise.
Ingredients
- 4 firm pears
- 500 ml red wine
- 150 g sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Orange zest
- 2 cloves
- Juice of half a lemon
Method
- Peel the pears, leaving the stem if possible.
- Bring the wine, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and zest to the boil.
- Add the pears and cook over a gentle heat until soft.
- Turn now and then for even colour.
- Leave to cool in the syrup.
- Serve cold with a drizzle of syrup and, if you like, cream.
Tips from Empório Portugal
- Firm pears keep their shape during cooking.
- Making ahead intensifies the flavour.
- The syrup can be reused in another recipe.
Possible replacements in Brazil
- Port can replace red wine for a sweeter version.
- Firm apples can be used in a similar version.
Pairing
The same wine used for the syrup, or an aged Port. Content intended for adults over 18. Drink in moderation.
Regional and family variations can alter ingredients, quantities and preparation.
Empório Portugal's recipes have cultural and gastronomic purposes. Adjust ingredients according to dietary restrictions, allergies and professional guidelines.
This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from the Portuguese culinary tradition. Like any traditional recipe, it can vary depending on the region, the family and the cook.
Send it to the Empório Portugal community. The recipes received are analyzed before any publication.
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