Pear compote

Pear compote - A sweet and comforting delight for every season

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 jars of 400 ml

Who doesn't love a tasty pear compote that reminds us of warm summer days or indulgent moments on winter evenings? Pear compote is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to preserve fruit, offering us a burst of flavors and a velvety texture. This recipe is not only easy to make but also filled with stories and traditions that connect us to nature and the seasons. In the following, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect, flavorful compote.

Ingredients needed for an ideal pear compote

- 2 kg of pears (choose ripe but firm pears for a good texture)
- 1 l of water
- 400 g of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)

Ingredient details

Pears are wonderful fruits, rich in vitamins (A, C, and K), fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to healthy digestion and have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Choose quality pears, preferably from local sources, to achieve a truly authentic taste. Varieties such as Williams or Bartlett pears are the most suitable for compote due to their sweetness and consistency.

Sugar is not just a sweetener but also a preservative that helps the compote last longer. If you want a healthier option, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount to taste.

Step by step: How to prepare pear compote

1. Preparing the pears: Wash the pears well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities from the surface. Then, using a sharp knife, peel the pears. Cut them in half, remove the seeds, and slice them into thick slices about 1-2 cm.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and 400 g of sugar. Place the pot on medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue to boil the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the syrup starts to thicken slightly. A hint that the syrup is ready is when, if you take a drop between your fingers, it will stick slightly.

3. Boiling the pears: Once the syrup is ready, add the pear slices to the pot. Boil them for 10-15 minutes, being careful not to leave them on the heat too long, so they don't disintegrate. The pears should become soft but retain a pleasant texture.

4. Sterilizing the jars: While the pears are boiling, prepare the jars. Wash them well with soap and water, then rinse. Place them in an oven preheated to 100°C for 15-20 minutes to sterilize. This step is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria.

5. Filling the jars: Once the pears are boiled, carefully remove the jars from the oven using kitchen gloves to avoid burns. Gently place the pear slices in the jars, filling them up to ¾. Then, pour the hot syrup over the pears, being careful to leave about 1 cm of space to the lid.

6. Sealing the jars: Screw the lid onto the jars, making sure it is tightly closed. This will help maintain the freshness of the compote.

7. Cooling and storing: Wrap the jars in a thick blanket and let them cool completely for 24 hours. This method helps create a vacuum inside the jars, ensuring better preservation. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry.

Personal note

One trick I love is to add some spices to the syrup, such as a cinnamon stick or a few cloves. These will add a subtle flavor and turn the compote into a truly special dessert. Also, for a touch of originality, you can try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the syrup.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can pear compote be stored?
If prepared correctly and stored under optimal conditions, pear compote can last up to a year in the pantry.

2. Can I use other fruits in the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with other fruits, such as apples or peaches, to create delicious combinations.

3. How can I serve pear compote?
The compote is delicious served as is, but you can also use it as a filling for pies or tarts. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with yogurt or ice cream.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Pear compote has a relatively low caloric content, approximately 120 calories per serving (100 g). It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy option for desserts. Consuming pears can help improve digestion and maintain heart health.

Possible variations

For a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners. Also, experiment with fruit combinations, adding, for example, some strawberries or blueberries to create a delicious mixed compote.

In conclusion, preparing this pear compote is a pleasant activity that not only enriches the winter pantry but also the soul. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by pleasant memories while savoring this simple yet characterful delight. Feel free to share this recipe with loved ones and create new traditions around the table! Bon appétit!