Apple and Plum Compote

Apple and Plum Compote - A Classic and Comforting Dessert

Apple and plum compote is a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that brings back childhood memories and warm moments spent with family. This simple and quick recipe transforms fresh fruits into a sweet and tangy delight, perfect to be served as a dessert or as an ingredient in other dishes. Besides its delicious taste, the compote is also an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits, so you can enjoy them throughout the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 servings (1 liter)

Ingredients:
- 4 medium, fresh, and fragrant apples
- 6 ripe plums, preferably of a sweet variety
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Water (enough to fill the bottles)
- 4 sterilized 1-liter bottles

Preparation:

1. Wash the fruits: Start by washing the apples and plums thoroughly under a cold water stream. It is important to remove any traces of pesticides or impurities, especially if you are using store-bought fruits.

2. Cut the fruits: Peel the apples (if you prefer) and slice them thinly. Cut the plums in half, removing the pits. These cuts not only help in better flavor distribution but also in achieving a pleasing presentation.

3. Prepare the bottles: Make sure the bottles are clean and sterilized. I recommend washing them well with hot water or sterilizing them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. This step is essential to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Start filling the bottles: Place the plums at the bottom of the bottles, as they will provide a beautiful color to the compote. Then add the apple slices, arranging them nicely to create an attractive visual effect.

5. Add the sugar: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of sugar into each bottle. The sugar not only sweetens the compote but also helps in preserving it.

6. Fill with water: Fill the bottles with water until they are nearly full. It is important to leave a little space for the liquid to expand during boiling.

7. Seal the bottles: Carefully screw the caps onto the bottles, ensuring they are tightly closed to prevent leaks.

8. Boil in a water bath: Place the bottles in a large pot of water (water bath) and bring to a boil. Let them boil for about 30 minutes. You will know they are done when the caps pop up, a sign that the air has been expelled and the compote is sealed.

9. Cool the compote: After boiling, let the bottles cool in the pot they boiled in. This will help maintain the flavors and avoid thermal shock.

10. Storage: The next day, store the bottles in your pantry, in a cool and dark place. The compote will be ready to be enjoyed at a family meal or as a dessert after dinner.

Serving suggestions:
Apple and plum compote can be served as is, but it is also an excellent base for various dishes. I recommend trying to add it to your favorite yogurt or using it as a filling for pancakes. It also pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a slice of cheesecake.

Tips and variations:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include a few cinnamon sticks or some cloves in the bottles before filling with water.
- Experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apricots, for a variety of flavors.
- Instead of sugar, you can use honey or a natural sweetener to make the compote healthier.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while plums are excellent for digestion and contain vitamins A and K. Together, these fruits contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with various fruit combinations, such as peaches, apricots, or even berries.

2. What if I don't have 1-liter bottles?
You can use smaller or larger bottles, but the boiling time may change depending on the size of the bottle.

3. How long does the compote last?
If stored in a cool and dark place, the compote can last for several months, but it is best enjoyed in the following spring or summer.

Enjoy this apple and plum compote, a simple recipe full of memories and unforgettable flavors!