Compote of apples, pears, and quinces

Apple, Pear and Quince Compote – A Fall Delight

Autumn is a season full of vibrant colors and enticing aromas, and the compote of apples, pears, and quinces is one of the most beautiful ways to preserve the essence of this season in jars. This simple and tasty recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring back childhood memories of moments spent around the table with loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients

- 4-5 apples (about 1 kg)
- 4-5 pears (about 1 kg)
- 2-3 quinces (about 500 g)
- 8-10 tablespoons of sugar (depending on desired sweetness)
- 1.5 liters of water

Preparing the Fruits

1. Fruit Selection: Choose apples, pears, and quinces with smooth skin and no signs of spoilage. The apples should be crisp, and the pears should be ripe but not too soft. Quinces, with their distinct aroma, add a special note to the compote.

2. Washing and Peeling: Wash the fruits well under cold running water. Peel the apples and pears, cutting them into appropriately sized cubes for even cooking. Quinces should be washed thoroughly, sliced with the skin on, and then cut into small cubes.

3. Preparing the Jars: Wash the jars with hot water and let them drain upside down on a clean towel. This step is essential to prevent contamination of the compote.

Preparing the Syrup

4. Measuring the Syrup: Use a jar filled with fruit to measure the amount of water needed. Generally, 1.5 liters of water should be sufficient for 4 jars.

5. Boiling the Syrup: In a large pot, add the measured water and 2 heaping tablespoons of sugar for each jar of compote. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. The syrup should not boil too long, just reach the boiling point.

Assembling the Compote

6. Filling the Jars: Starting with the apple cubes, add the fruits to the jars, alternating between apples, pears, and quinces. Make sure the jars are filled evenly, leaving a little space for syrup.

7. Adding the Syrup: Pour the hot syrup over the fruits, filling the jars almost to the top. Seal the jars tightly.

The Sterilization Process

8. Sterilizing: Place the jars in a large pot, fill with water up to 3/4 of the height of the jars, and cover them with a towel. Put the pot on the stove and let the water come to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat and let the jars boil for 35-40 minutes.

9. Cooling: Use an oven mitt to remove the hot jars from the water. Place them on a clean towel and cover them with a blanket to cool gradually. This step helps create a vacuum in the jars, ensuring that the fruits will be properly preserved.

Storage

10. Keeping: The next day, when the jars are completely cool, remove the blanket and place them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. Your compote is now ready to be enjoyed!

Helpful Tips

- Sugar-Free Version: If you want a healthier option, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey.
- Flavoring: Add a few cloves or a cinnamon stick to the syrup for a unique taste and aroma.
- Enriching the Compote: You can also add other fruits, such as plums or peaches, to create unique combinations.
- Serving: The compote can be served as is, but it is also delicious with yogurt or ice cream. Additionally, it makes a perfect accompaniment to pancakes or cakes.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

The apple, pear, and quince compote is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. The fruits used are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A and C, thus contributing to a balanced diet. A serving of compote (about 200 g) contains approximately 100-120 calories, depending on the amount of sugar added.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can other fruits be used?
- Yes, you can experiment with different combinations of fruits, such as plums or peaches.

2. Can I use frozen fruits?
- It is recommended to use fresh fruits for better flavor and texture, but frozen fruits can also be used.

3. Can the compote be consumed immediately after preparation?
- Although the compote can be consumed immediately, it is recommended to let it cool completely and settle to blend the flavors.

4. How long can the compote be kept?
- If properly sterilized, the compote can be stored for 1-2 years in the pantry.

So, don’t wait any longer! Bring these wonderful fruits to life and enjoy a compote that will remind you of childhood autumns. Enjoy your meal!