Sumac and Saffron Poached Pears with Pistachio Halva Crumble

Ingredients

• 4 large pears, peeled and cored
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 cup pistachios, chopped
• 1 cup halva, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup flour, sifted
• 1 tablespoon honey

Method

1. 01
   In a large saucepan, combine water, sugar, sumac, saffron, and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. 02
   Add the peeled and cored pears to the simmering syrup and reduce the heat to low. Cover and poach the pears for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. 03
   While the pears are poaching, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. 04
   In a mixing bowl, combine chopped pistachios, crumbled halva, melted butter, sifted flour, and honey. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
5. 05
   Spread the pistachio mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
6. 06
   Once the pears are poached, remove them from the syrup and allow them to cool slightly.
7. 07
   To serve, place a poached pear on each plate and drizzle with a little of the poaching syrup. Sprinkle generously with the pistachio halva crumble.