I give this 5 stars for flavor, but 1 star for poor directions and a set failure, with an average of 3 stars. If there is a next time I make this I will follow the directions given on the pectin product with the following changes to give it this recipe's spicyness and nice touch of brown sugar: 4 cups chopped pears, 2 tbs. fresh lemon juice, 1 package pectin (which happens to be only 1.75 oz.), 4 1/2 cups white sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar (just substituting 1/2 cup brown sugar for a total of 5 cups sugar), 1 1/4 tsp. allspice and 1 tsp. nutmeg (I can't believe I'm saying this since I adore spices, but there was WAY too much allspice in this recipe). Notice I would not add water, I believe this is why this recipe fails at setting. The recipe on the pectin box does not include water since the pears break down and basically melt anyway. Do step one as listed here, step two would exclude the water and I would simmer uncovered to let any extra liquid evaporate. I would add both sugars and the spices once the pear, lemon juice and pectin mixture comes to a rolling boil. Return to a rolling boil for a minute then can as step 4 states. I have made numerous jam, preserve, jelly, and canning recipes in general and this one was just poorly written. Try it with the above recommendations and I'm sure it will set and be as it should. It is delicious, but syrupy instead of gelled. I'm hoping to use what I have to make the pear preserves cake on this site and I would love to try i

Reviewed On: Nov. 21, 2008

I originally found this recipe on another website, but this is same and it's the BEST roast chicken recipe. I just multiply the spices by 1 1/2 so there are plenty to rub on the chicken. And, I cut down on the cayenne and black pepper so the kids will be more willing to eat it (too spicy otherwise). This is so juicy and flavorful my family would choose this recipe for roast chicken almost every time (our next favorite is chef Thomas Keller's 'Simple Roast Chicken' on epicurious.com). It's also very easy and makes your house smell wonderful all day.

Reviewed On: Oct. 24, 2007

We love this twist on chili. The only thing I change about this is cutting down on the chicken broth to 2 cups. Otherwise, it's too soupy and not thick like I think chili should be. Even the kids like this one and it's great topped with a dollop of sour cream!

Reviewed On: Oct. 24, 2007