Brandied Pears

• 2 pounds sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 long strip

Combine sugar, vanilla extract, lemon peel, cloves and water in large saucepan, and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Lower heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.

Halve, core and peel pears. Add them to syrup and simmer gently, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until pears are translucent and soft. Remove from syrup with a slotted spoon.

Sterilise 4 pint jars; leave i