Cherry compote

Cherry compote is a delight that makes us think of warm summer days, spent in the garden, and the joy of savoring fresh fruits. Preparing cherry compote is a tradition passed down through generations, a wonderful way to preserve the aroma and taste of these wonderful fruits for the coming winter. In this recipe, we will explore step by step how to prepare a delicious cherry compote, perfect for enjoying in winter or to add a touch of joy to your desserts.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of well-ripened cherries (choose firm cherries without blemishes)
- water (enough to fill the jars)
- sugar (2 tablespoons for each jar)

Necessary utensils:
- Glass jars with lids (preferably 400 ml)
- A large pot for water bath
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Skimmer (optional, to remove impurities)

Step by step for perfect cherry compote:

1. Preparing the cherries:
Start by carefully washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities and any leaves. If you wish, you can remove the pits, although they can add extra flavor.

2. Filling the jars:
In each clean jar, add 10 cherries. You can arrange them carefully so they do not get crushed. It is important not to fill the jars to the brim; leave a little space for the liquid to expand during cooking.

3. Adding sugar:
Over the cherries, add 2 tablespoons of sugar. The sugar will help preserve the compote and add sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet compote, you can adjust the amount of sugar to taste.

4. Filling with water:
Fill the jars with water up to the edge, being careful not to spill. Use a ladle to avoid spilling.

5. Sealing the jars:
Close the jars with the lids and make sure they are airtight. It is important that air does not enter to prevent fermentation.

6. Boiling in a water bath:
Place the jars in the large pot with water, making sure the water reaches halfway up the jars. Boil them for 30-40 minutes. This process not only sterilizes the compote but also helps infuse the flavors of the cherries with the sugar.

7. Cooling the compote:
After the jars have boiled, carefully remove them from the water (use gloves to avoid burns) and place them on a clean towel, allowing them to cool completely. It is normal for the lid to depress, indicating that the jar has sealed correctly.

8. Storage:
Once the compote has cooled, store the jars in a dark, cool place. This will help maintain freshness and flavor.

Useful tips:
- Choosing cherries: Opt for ripe and firm cherries, as these will provide a tastier and more aromatic compote.
- Sugar-free version: If you want a healthier option, you can replace sugar with honey or another natural sweetener, being careful to adjust the amount according to taste.
- Adding flavors: You can experiment with additional flavors, such as a few mint leaves or a cinnamon stick added to the jar before pouring in the water.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long does cherry compote last? If stored properly, the compote can be consumed for 1-2 years.
- Can it be used for other fruits? Absolutely! This recipe also applies to other fruits, such as cherries or peaches. Each fruit will bring a unique note!

Delicious combinations:
Cherry compote is delicious served plain, but it can also be used as an ingredient in various desserts. You can add the compote over yogurt, ice cream, or even in cakes. Additionally, a glass of cherry compote pairs perfectly with a slice of vanilla cake or fluffy pancakes.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having a beneficial impact on heart health and the immune system. They also help improve sleep and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking and treat your family and friends to a delicious cherry compote! I encourage you not to stop at just this recipe; experiment, add new ingredients and flavors, and turn each jar into a summer story for the coming winter. Enjoy!