Cherry compote

Sour Cherry Compote - A Summer Delicacy

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 24 hours (preferably)
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400 ml

Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of sour cherry compote! On a summer day, when sour cherries are in full season, there is nothing more pleasant than turning these juicy fruits into a sweet and sour compote that will remind you of warm days every winter. This simple and quick recipe is easy to follow, and the result is delightful.

The history of sour cherry compote dates back to ancient times when people began preserving fruits to enjoy them outside the season. Compote is a traditional preservation method that not only retains the natural flavors of the fruits but also adds a touch of sweetness that makes every bite a true pleasure.

Ingredients

- 1 kg of fresh sour cherries
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Water (approximately 1 liter)

Necessary utensils

- Glass jars (preferably 400 ml)
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Blanket or thick towels
- Strainer or sieve (optional)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Cherries
Start by washing the sour cherries under cold running water. Make sure they are clean and free of impurities. If you wish, you can remove the pits, but compote with pits has a more intense and authentic flavor.

2. Preparing the Jars
Wash the glass jars with warm water and detergent, then rinse them well. It is recommended to sterilize them before use, either by boiling or using the oven, to prevent contamination.

3. Filling the Jars
Fill each jar with cherries up to three-quarters full. Add 4 tablespoons of sugar, adjusting the amount according to how sweet you prefer your compote. The sugar not only sweetens but also helps preserve the fruits.

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

5. Boiling
Place the jars in a large pot filled with cold water, ensuring the water covers the jars by at least an inch. Put the pot on medium heat and let it boil. It will take about 15 minutes for the water to start changing color, and the cherries will release their juice.

6. Cooling
When the water starts changing color, carefully remove the jars from the pot. Wrap them in a blanket or thick towels to retain heat and let them cool slowly. This process will help create a vacuum inside the jars.

7. Storing
After they have cooled, it is best to store them in a dark, cool place, preferably for 24 hours. Each time you take out the jars, make sure to change the water in the pot.

Practical Tips

- Sweetness of the Compote: If you prefer a more sour compote, you can reduce the amount of sugar. You can also add a few mint leaves for an extra flavor.
- Variation with Other Fruits: You can combine sour cherries with other fruits, such as cherries or apricots, for a delicious mixed compote.
- Serving: Sour cherry compote is delicious served cold, as a dessert or as an ingredient in various drinks, such as cocktails or natural juices. You can add a little lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Use in Recipes: Use sour cherry compote as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or ice creams. It can add an elegant touch to your desserts.

Nutritional Values (per serving)

- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen sour cherries?
Yes, frozen sour cherries are an excellent alternative, especially out of season. Make sure to thaw and drain them before use.

- How can I tell if the jars are sealed correctly?
After they have cooled, check if the lids are well sealed. If pressing down on the center of the lid does not make it pop back, then the jar is sealed properly.

- How long can I keep the compote?
Sour cherry compote can be stored for up to a year if kept under proper conditions.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t let anything stop you from creating seasonal delights! Sour cherry compote is not just a simple recipe, but a treasure that will bring you joy on cold days. So, I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!