Simple Syrup:

1. Combine all sugar, water, cream of tartar, and salt in a large pan.
2. Stir and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and put the cover on it for 3 minutes to get sugar crystals off the sides of the pan.
4. Uncover and cook, stirring often, until it reaches soft ball stage (235ºF).
5. Let syrup cool before using it.

Walnut-Stuffed Pears

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
2. Slice pears in half lengthwise and scoop out the cores so that a cavity remains in each half.
3. Combine the raisins, walnuts, sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl and mix well.
4. Fill the cavity of each pear, dividing the filling equally.
5. Place the pears stuffed-side up in a baking dish with a cover.
6. Mix together the simple syrup and water and pour into the baking dish.
7. Cover the dish and bake at 350ºF for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pears are easily pierced with a fork.
8. Serve warm or cold with some simple syrup spooned over each pear.