Peach compote

Peach Compote: A Summer Delight in a Jar

If you're looking for a delicious way to preserve the flavor of summer all year round, peach compote is the perfect choice. This simple yet refined dessert will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of sunshine to any rainy day. Moreover, it is an easy recipe that requires just a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. In this guide, I will walk you through the necessary steps to achieve the best peach compote, sharing some useful tips along the way.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 0.5 liters

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 kg ripe, juicy, and aromatic peaches
- 1.1 kg sugar
- 5.5 l water

Step 1: Preparing the peaches

Start by washing the peaches thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or residues. After washing, I recommend slicing them into thin wedges. If you prefer, you can peel them, but since the skin adds an intense flavor, you may want to leave it on for a richer taste.

Step 2: Filling the jars

Prepare the cleaned and dried jars. Arrange the peach slices inside, making sure to leave a 1-2 cm space from the top of the jar. This space is crucial for the liquid to expand during the boiling process.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup

In a large pot, add the sugar and water. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. You will obtain a sweet and clear syrup, perfect for enveloping the peach slices in its enticing aroma.

Step 4: Filling the jars with syrup

When the syrup is ready, carefully pour it over the peach slices in the jars. Ensure that the peaches are completely covered, while still leaving that 1-2 cm space mentioned earlier. This will prevent any risk of jar explosions during boiling.

Step 5: Sealing and sterilizing

Screw the jar lids on tightly, ensuring they are well sealed. Place a towel at the bottom of a large pot to prevent the jars from making direct contact with the pot's bottom, which could lead to breakage. Place the jars on the towel, then fill the pot with water until it reaches 2/3 of the height of the jars. Boil the jars in a steam bath for 40-50 minutes.

Step 6: Cooling the jars

After the boiling time has expired, turn off the heat and let the jars cool gradually in the hot water, or cover them with a blanket to retain the heat. This step helps create a perfect vacuum, essential for preserving the compote.

Useful tips for perfect compote:

- Choose ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches may fall apart during the preservation process.
- You can add half a sliced lemon or a few sprigs of mint in the jars with peaches for a fresher taste.
- If you prefer a less sweet syrup, you can reduce the sugar amount to 800 g.

Nutritional benefits of peaches:

Peaches are not only delicious but also very healthy. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which help boost the immune system. Additionally, peaches are rich in fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. A peach compote can be a perfect snack, with about 220 calories per serving (a 0.5-liter jar).

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to completely thaw them before using.

2. How long can I keep the peach compote?
If properly sterilized, peach compote can be stored for 1-2 years in a cool, dark place.

3. How can I use peach compote?
Peach compote is delicious enjoyed on its own, but it can also be used as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or even as an ingredient in cakes.

Possible variations:

- Replace some of the peaches with apricots or plums to create a delicious mix.
- Add a splash of vanilla or cinnamon to the syrup for a unique flavor.

In conclusion, peach compote is not only a delicious dessert but also a fantastic way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. It is a simple recipe with many variation possibilities that will make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen. So gather the necessary ingredients and let's enjoy this delight together!