PLUM COMPOTE

Plum Compote - a Summer Gem in a Jar

Plum compote is a delicacy that reminds us of warm days spent in the garden, when ripe fruits delight our senses. This simple and effective recipe allows us to preserve the flavor of summer all year round. Plum compote is not just a recipe, but a tradition passed down from generation to generation, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every jar. Below, I will present a detailed recipe that will guide you step by step in achieving the perfect compote.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 18-20 jars of 800 ml

Ingredients

- 1 bucket of plums (approximately 5-6 kg)
- 1 kg of sugar
- 5 liters of water

Choosing the ingredients

Plums are the stars of this recipe, so it's essential to choose quality fruits. Opt for ripe but firm plums, free from blemishes or imperfections. The best plums for compote are sweet ones, as the sugar will enhance their flavor. It's important to take the time to wash the fruits well to remove any impurities.

Making the compote

Step 1: Wash the plums
Start by washing the plums under a stream of cold water. Make sure to clean them well to remove any traces of dust or pesticides. You can gently scrub them with a soft brush if necessary.

Step 2: Prepare the jars
Choose 800 ml jars, ensuring they are clean and dry. It is ideal to sterilize them before use. You can do this either by boiling or in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Arrange the fruits in jars
Fill each jar with 15-16 plums, taking care to pack them as tightly as possible. If you wish, you can cut the plums in half and remove the pits, but this step is not mandatory.

Step 4: Prepare the syrup
In a large pot, add 5 liters of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. You do not need to boil the water, just obtain a slightly warm syrup. This will penetrate the fruits better.

Step 5: Fill the jars
Pour the warm syrup over the plums, leaving about 1-2 cm of space at the top of the jar. Make sure all the plums are covered with syrup, but do not fill the jars to the brim.

Step 6: Sterilization process
Prepare a large pot in which to place the jars. Place towels or newspapers at the bottom of the pot to avoid direct contact of the jars with the bottom of the pot. Arrange the jars in the pot and pour water up to about 2/3 of the height of the jars. Cover the pot and let it boil for 20-30 minutes, starting from the moment the water begins to boil.

Step 7: Cool the jars
After the boiling time has elapsed, carefully remove the jars from the pot. Place them on a clean towel and wrap them in blankets to cool slowly. This step is crucial to ensure a good seal.

Step 8: Storage
Once the jars have completely cooled, check if the lids are well sealed (when pressed, they should not give in). Then, store the jars in a pantry, in a cool, dark place.

Nutritional benefits

Plum compote is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Plums are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and fiber, thus contributing to healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system. Additionally, plum compote can help maintain cardiovascular health due to the antioxidants it contains.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen plums for compote?
Yes, you can use frozen plums, but it is recommended to thaw them before putting them in jars.

2. What can I do with plum compote?
Plum compote is delicious on its own, but you can also use it as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or as an ingredient in various desserts.

3. What other fruits can I add to the compote?
To diversify the flavors, you can add apples, pears, or peaches to the recipe, creating a mixed compote.

Possible variations

If you want to add a flavorful note, you can incorporate a few cinnamon sticks or some cloves into the syrup. These will give the compote a unique flavor and turn each jar into a true delicacy.

Serving suggestions

Plum compote is delicious served cold as a dessert, but you can also use it to accompany vanilla ice cream or natural yogurt. Additionally, you can add some toasted walnuts or almonds for extra texture.

In conclusion, making plum compote is a pleasant and satisfying activity that will bring you joy throughout the year. Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, every spoonful will bring a smile to your face. So, don't hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe that will take you back to summer memories, even on the coldest winter days. Enjoy!