Cherry compote

Cherry compote: a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for savoring summer in every winter

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 400 ml

When it comes to preserves, cherry compote is a favorite for many. This preparation not only revives warm memories of summer but also provides an excellent way to keep fresh fruits for winter. Cherry compote is a versatile and easy-to-make choice, ideal for serving as a dessert or used in various recipes.

The history of compote is closely linked to the traditions of fruit preservation. This method has been used for centuries to take advantage of bountiful harvests and quickly became a popular practice in many households. Compote brings us not only flavor but also the nostalgia of the authentic taste of summer fruits.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh cherries (washed and pitted)
- 250 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Water (enough to fill the jars)

Step by step for a perfect compote:

1. Preparing the jars: Start by thoroughly washing the jars and lids in warm soapy water, then rinse them several times with clean water. You can also sterilize them in the oven at 100°C for 10 minutes to ensure they are completely sanitized.

2. Preparing the cherries: Wash the cherries under a stream of cold water and carefully remove the pits. If you don’t have a special pitting tool, you can use a small knife to remove them. Each cherry should be perfect, so don’t rush!

3. Filling the jars: Place the cherries in the jars, filling them halfway or three-quarters full, leaving a little space for expansion.

4. Adding the sugar: To each jar, add 2 and a half tablespoons of sugar. This will help preserve the natural sweetness of the cherries and also aid in their preservation.

5. Topping with water: Fill each jar with water to the brim, being careful to leave a small space between the water and the lid. Seal the jars tightly.

6. Boiling in a water bath: Place the jars in a large pot, fill the pot with water up to halfway of the jars, and put it on the heat. Boil the compote for about 15 minutes until the water reaches a boiling point. Although it is recommended to boil for 15 minutes, in practice, you can just bring it to a simmer. This is one of the quick methods I prefer, and the results are always excellent.

7. Cooling: Once you finish boiling, use tongs to remove the jars and place them on a towel or tray, then cover them with a blanket to cool slowly. This helps create a vacuum and keeps the compote for a longer period.

Serving suggestions:

Cherry compote is delicious served plain, but it can also be used as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or as a filling for various cakes. Additionally, you can combine it with yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthy and energizing breakfast.

Nutritional benefits:

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, iron, and potassium. This compote will not only delight your taste buds but also provide health benefits when consumed throughout the winter.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and other fruits like peaches, plums, or cherries are just as delicious.

2. How can I adjust the sweetness? If you prefer a less sweet compote, you can reduce the amount of sugar. You can also add a few mint leaves for a fresh taste.

3. What should I do if the jars do not seal? If you notice that a jar hasn’t sealed properly, you can keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days.

4. How long can I keep the compote? Under proper storage conditions, cherry compote can be consumed for up to a year. Make sure to store it in a cool, dark place.

Possible variations:

For an even more interesting taste, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or lemon zest to each jar before filling it with water. This will give a unique fragrance and flavor to your compote.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Cherry compote is not just a simple recipe but also a way to preserve summer memories and enjoy them on colder days. I wish you success in the kitchen and hope you enjoy every spoonful of this delicacy!