Pear Compote

Pear Compote

Source: Food Network Magazine, March 2013, pg. 145

1/2 C dry white wine
1/2 split vanilla bean
1 star anise pod
pinch salt and pepper
2 T. sugar
2 pears, chopped and peeled
3 T. water
1/4 tsp. thyme

Bring the wine, vanilla bean, star anise, and the salt and pepper to a simmer. Cook until reduced by half, about 4 minutes. Add the sugar, pears, and water and simmer 8 more minutes. Add the thyme and increase the heat and simmer until syrupy, 1-4 minutes. Let cool.