Figs and Pears in Honey

Eating for Health, Detox Dieting by Nicola Graimes, 2000, Anness Publishing Ltd

1 lemon

6 Tbsp. clear honey

1 cinnamon stick

1 cardamom pod

2 pears

8 fresh figs, halved

Pare the rind from the lemon using a zester or vegetable peeler, avoiding any of the white pith, then cut into very thin strips. Place the lemon rind, honey, cinnamon stick, cardamom pod and 1 ½ cups water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil, uncovered, for 10 minutes until the liquid has reduced by about half. Cut the pears into eighths, discarding the cores. Place the pears in the syrup, add the halved figs and simmer gently for 5 minutes until the fruit is tender. Transfer the fruit to a serving bowl. Continue cooking the liquid until syrupy, then discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pod and pour over the figs and pears.