Pear compote

Fragrant Pear Compote - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 ml

Who doesn't love the sweet and fragrant taste of pear compote? This classic compote recipe is perfect for preserving the flavor of seasonal fruits and enjoying them throughout the year. Whether you use them as a dessert, as an ingredient in a cake, or as a topping for yogurt, caramelized pears in sugar syrup are always an excellent choice.

A brief history of compote takes us back in time when people began to preserve fruits to consume them in the cold months. This preservation method not only helps extend the shelf life of fruits but also intensifies their flavors. Compote quickly became an essential part of traditional cuisine, enjoyed not only on its own but also as an ingredient in various dishes.

Ingredients:

- 3 kg small, firm pears
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (2 tablespoons for each jar)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (1/2 packet for each jar)
- Water (approximately 2 liters, depending on the size of the pot)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Selecting and preparing the pears: Choose small, firm pears for a thicker compote. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Peel them, then remove the cores and seeds. Cut the pears into quarters, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.

2. Preparing the jars: Use 800 ml jars, which should be well washed and dried. It is important that they are sterilized to prevent bacterial growth. You can do this by rinsing them with hot water or placing them in the oven for 10-15 minutes.

3. Assembling the compote: Fill each jar with pear quarters, being careful not to leave too much empty space, as the pears will lose volume while cooking. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 packet of vanilla sugar to each jar.

4. Adding water: Fill the jars with water, leaving a little space at the top for the liquid to expand during boiling.

5. Boiling the compote: Place the jars in a large pot, on the bottom of which you have placed some kitchen towels to prevent the jars from cracking. Add cold water to the pot so that it covers the jars halfway. Put the pot on medium heat. When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and let it boil for 30 minutes.

6. Cooling and storing: Turn off the heat and cover the pot with thick towels, allowing it to cool until the next day. This will help seal the jars. The next day, carefully remove the jars from the water and let them dry. Store the compote in cool, well-ventilated places, away from direct sunlight.

Useful tips:

- Adjusting the sugar: The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences. If you prefer less sweet compotes, you can reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon per jar.
- Adding spices: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few cloves or a strip of lemon peel to each jar.
- Serving: Pear compote is delicious served warm or cold. It can be enjoyed on its own, but you can also combine it with natural yogurt, ice cream, or cakes.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can the compote be stored for a longer time?
Yes, if prepared and sealed correctly, the compote can be stored for up to a year.

2. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to include apples, peaches, or plums.

3. How can I check if the jars are sealed?
After the jars have cooled, check if the lids are well sealed. Press down in the center of the lid; if it does not pop up, the jar is sealed.

Nutritional benefits:

Pears are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. These fruits can contribute to improved digestion and heart health. Pear compote remains a healthy option, given that it contains no additives or preservatives.

This pear compote recipe is not only an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this compote will always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it. Enjoy!