Delicious pear compote

Delicious Pear Compote - A Seasonal Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Sterilization time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 ml

Every winter, pear compote becomes a beloved delicacy, bringing a touch of freshness and a warm aroma to chilly days. This simple pear compote recipe is easy to make and can transform seasonal fruits into a delicious treat that will remind you of sunny summer days. Get ready to discover how you can preserve pears while keeping their flavor and aroma intact!

Ingredients needed

- 2 kg pears (choose sweet and fragrant varieties like Williams or Conference pears)
- 1 kg sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your taste)
- Juice of 2 lemons (to add a fresh taste and prevent oxidation)
- 4 cinnamon sticks or 4 tablespoons of ground cinnamon (for a warm and comforting aroma)

Preparing the pear compote

1. Wash and prepare the pears: Start by washing the pears thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, remove the stems and cut them into quarters or slices, depending on your preference. If you wish, you can leave the skin on, as it adds extra nutrients and flavor.

2. Fill the jars: Place the cut pears into the 800 ml jars, leaving a little space at the top. It is important that the jars are clean and sterilized beforehand to prevent contamination.

3. Add the aromatic ingredients: To each jar, add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, depending on how sweet you like your compote. Add a teaspoon of lemon juice and a cinnamon stick (or a teaspoon of ground cinnamon). Gently stir with a spoon to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Sterilize the jars: In a large pot, place the filled jars with pears and fill the pot with cold water, so that the water reaches the neck of the jars. Put the pot on low heat and let it boil. Once the water starts to boil, time it for 35 minutes. This way, the compote will be properly preserved, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

5. Cool and store: After the sterilization time has expired, turn off the heat and let the jars sit in the hot water until they cool down. This process helps seal the jars. Once cooled, remove the jars and store them in a cool, well-ventilated place, preferably in a pantry.

Serving suggestions

Pear compote is delicious on its own, but it can also be a versatile ingredient in various recipes. You can add pear compote to yogurt for a healthy breakfast, or use it as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or pies. Additionally, you can serve it with vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert.

Interesting variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other spices like cloves or nutmeg to provide an even more complex flavor. You can also try substituting some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural touch.

Nutritional benefits

Pears are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of pears can help improve digestion, maintain heart health, and strengthen the immune system. Pear compote retains many of these nutritional benefits, offering you a healthy snack during the winter.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Absolutely! You can create a mixed compote with apples, peaches, or plums to diversify the flavors.

2. How can I tell if the jars have sealed properly?
Check if the neck of the jar is adhered. If pressing down on the lid does not return to its original position, the jar is well sealed.

3. How long can I keep the pear compote?
Pear compote can be stored under proper conditions for 1-2 years, but it is best consumed within a year to enjoy the best flavor.

4. How can I enhance the flavor of the compote?
Adding pieces of fresh ginger or slices of orange can provide an interesting and refreshing flavor.

In conclusion, pear compote is more than just a simple preservation recipe – it is a way to keep summer memories alive and savor the sweet taste of pears even on the coldest days. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, bringing joy to every pantry. Enjoy!