"Sugar and spice mingle in this stunning terrine constructed of layers of paper-thin pear slices that are baked until meltingly tender. A dusting of star anise imparts a subtle but memorable zing...."
INGREDIENTS
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1/4 cup water
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1 cup sugar
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2 whole star anise, finely grated (1/2 teaspoon)
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
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4 to 5 pounds ripe, firm Bartlett pears (10 to 12 pears)
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6 ounces mild blue cheese, preferably Fourme d'Ambert, thinly sliced (optional)
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1 cup walnuts, toasted (optional)