Rich Pear Sorbet

Using whole pureed fruit lends this sorbet a thick, rich texture.

6 cups pears, cubed
3/4 cup water
2 Tbls. maple syrup
1/2 tsp. ground cardamom

Before chopping the pears, remove wax from the skin by dipping the pears in hot water for about 30 seconds and scrubbing them with a clean, rough cloth. The color of the skin may change, but it doesn't damage the texture or flavor.

Chop the pears into small pieces, removing the core, until you have 6 cups.

Bring to a boil over high heat the pear, water, and maple syrup. Reduce heat to medium and boil, covered, until pears are completely soft.

Add the cardamom. If most of the water has boiled off, add another 1/2 cup. Puree the mixture in a blender until completely smooth. Transfer to another container and chill out completely.

Once it is cold, process it in an ice cream machine according to the machine's instructions.