Pear compote

Delicious Pear Compote – a classic recipe for winter

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 ml

Who doesn't love the sweet and pleasant aroma of preserved pears? This pear compote, inspired by traditional recipes, is perfect for adding a touch of freshness and flavor to winter meals. For me, it's more than just a compote; it's an ideal accompaniment to roasts or mashed potatoes, a reminder of childhood flavors, and a delight that I enjoy throughout the cold season.

Pears are wonderful fruits, full of vitamins and minerals, and pear compote is an excellent way to preserve them for winter. This preparation not only offers a sweet and aromatic taste but also a source of nutrients, making it a healthier choice than many other desserts.

Here’s how you can prepare this delicious compote step by step:

Required ingredients:
- 4 kg of green pears (choose firm and ripe pears, but not too soft)
- 2 liters of water
- 800 g of sugar
- 1 lemon (to prevent oxidation)
- 2-3 cloves (optional, for a more aromatic taste)
- 2 sticks of cinnamon (optional, for a warm aroma)

Preparing the compote:

1. Preparing the pears:
Start by washing the pears well under a stream of cold water to remove dirt. Then, using a sharp knife, peel them. Once finished, cut them into quarters and remove the seeds. It’s important to sprinkle the pears with lemon juice as you peel them to prevent oxidation and maintain a beautiful color.

2. Preparing the syrup:
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and 800 g of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Let the syrup boil for a few minutes to achieve a uniform consistency. If you want to add flavors, now is the time to add the cloves and cinnamon. These spices will add a warm and comforting note to the compote.

3. Boiling the pears:
Once the syrup is ready, carefully add the pear pieces to the pot. Let them simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, just until they become a little softer, but do not let them disintegrate. This step is essential to preserve the texture of the pears.

4. Filling the jars:
Prepare the sterilized jars, either by boiling or washing them in the dishwasher. Using a ladle, carefully remove the pears from the syrup and place them in the jars, filling them to about 2 cm from the top. Then, strain the hot syrup over the pears, ensuring that the jars are full, but not to the brim.

5. Sealing the jars:
Close the jars with their lids. Place them in a warm spot, wrapping them in blankets to create a steaming effect. This step helps seal the compote and develop the flavors. Leave them covered for 12-24 hours.

6. Storing:
After the jars have cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Pear compote can be kept for up to a year, but I guarantee it will be consumed much faster!

Useful tips:
- Choose the right pears: Make sure the pears are firm and ripe, but not soft. Overripe pears can lead to an unpleasant texture in the compote.
- Customize the syrup: If you want a more exotic flavor, you can add a bit of freshly grated ginger to the syrup or replace part of the sugar with honey.
- Taste and adjust: Before pouring the syrup over the pears, taste it and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Use glass jars: Ensure the jars are clean and properly sterilized to prevent contamination.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I tell if the compote is still good? Check if the jars are sealed correctly. If the lid is bulging or you see mold, do not consume the compote.
- Can I use other fruits for this compote? Absolutely! Plums, apples, or peaches can also be used in this recipe, adjusting the amounts of sugar and cooking time accordingly.
- What can I do with the compote? Pear compote can be enjoyed plain, but it’s also delicious in cakes, with yogurt, or as a filling for pancakes.

Serving:
Serve this pear compote as a side dish for roasts or as a sweet dessert alongside a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It can also be used to add a splash of color and flavor to fruit salads or various pastry dishes.

This pear compote is not only a delicious preparation but also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer throughout the winter. So embrace this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its comforting aromas!