Fresh raw lychee in a light, sweet syrup with poached pears. Whole Chinese five-spice and honey complement the gentle, exotic taste of juicy lychee fruit. Dairy-free, gluten-free and sugar-free. Vegan option.
Boil water and spices for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 25 minutes.
Core and peel pears. Start by trimming a thin layer from the bottom. This helps the pear sit straight up. Next, insert a knife or slender melon baller at bottom of the pear to remove the core and seeds from the center. Peel pears, but leave the top and stem intact.
Strain spice water and return to the saucepan. Stir in vegan honey and lime juice.
Place pears in the pot and bring to a slight boil. Cook 15 to 20 minutes until tender but still holding shape.
Remove pears. Reduce and thicken syrup by boiling it until it evaporates to ½ cup.
Chill pears and syrup together. Chill lychees separately.
To serve, remove pears from the syrup and slice them in half. Plate the pears, top with lychees and pour syrup over all.