Soothing Chamomile & Honey Poached Pears

This feels fancy. It looks fancy. It involves approximately eight minutes of actual work. The pears poach gently in chamomile tea with a bit of honey, becoming tender and fragrant. Serve them warm with yoghurt or just as they are.

Why it's gut-friendly: Pears are rich in soluble fibre and are one of the most gentle fruits for sensitive stomachs. Chamomile is renowned for its calming, anti-inflammatory properties—both for the nervous system and the digestive tract.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 ripe but firm pears (Conference or Comice work well)
• 2 chamomile tea bags (or 1 tbsp dried chamomile flowers)
• 500ml water
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• 1 strip of lemon peel
• Greek yoghurt or coconut yoghurt to serve

Method:

1. Peel the pears, leaving the stems intact if you want them to look pretty. Slice a thin sliver off the bottom so they stand upright.
2. In a saucepan just large enough to hold the pears snugly, bring the water to a simmer. Add the chamomile tea bags, honey, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Steep for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the tea bags (or strain if using loose flowers). Return the liquid to a gentle simmer.
4. Place the pears in the poaching liquid. They should be mostly submerged—add a bit more water if needed.
5. Cover and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pears are tender when pierced with a knife.
6. Remove the pears with a slotted spoon. If you want a syrup, simmer the remaining liquid for 10-15 minutes until reduced and slightly thickened.
7. Serve the pears warm, drizzled with a little of the reduced syrup, with a dollop of yoghurt.