Plum compote

Plum Compote Recipe for Winter

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 ml or 8 jars of 400 ml

Introduction
Plum compote is a delicacy that reminds us of summer and provides a source of vitamins and delicious flavors during winter. It is an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits, allowing us to enjoy their aroma even on cold days. Today's recipe is simple, quick, and requires few ingredients, making it perfect even for beginners. Let's get started!

Ingredients
- Ripe plums (about 1 kg)
- Sugar (3 tablespoons for each 800 ml jar)
- Water (enough to fill the jars)

Useful tips about the ingredients
- Choose healthy plums, free of spots or signs of damage. Ripe plums add a sweet and fragrant taste to the compote, and the best varieties are those with juicy flesh.
- Sugar is not only a preservative but also a sweetening agent. You can adjust the amount according to your taste; if you prefer a less sweet compote, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
- The water used to fill the jars should be clean, preferably filtered, to avoid impurities.

Making the plum compote

1. Washing and preparing the plums
Start by washing the plums thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any pesticides or impurities from the surface of the fruits. After washing, remove the stems and check for any spoiled fruit.

2. Placing the plums in jars
Take the 800 ml (or 400 ml) jars and fill them with the prepared plums. Do not overcrowd them; leave a little space to allow for the expansion of the fruits during cooking.

3. Adding sugar
After filling the jars with plums, add 3 tablespoons of sugar to each jar. The sugar will dissolve during boiling, creating a delicious syrup.

4. Filling with water
Fill each jar with water, ensuring that the plums are completely covered. Leave a small air gap at the top (about 1-2 cm) to allow for expansion.

5. Preparing for sterilization
Seal the jars with their respective lids. Carefully place them in a large pot filled with water, ensuring the jars are completely submerged. This sterilization method is essential for preserving the compote.

6. Boiling
Place the pot over medium heat until the water begins to boil. Once the water reaches a boiling point, let the jars boil for 15 minutes. This step ensures that all bacteria are killed and the compote is well preserved.

7. Cooling and storing
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and carefully remove the jars from the water. Cover them with a blanket to cool slowly, which helps create a vacuum. Leave them like this until the next day. Afterwards, store the jars in a pantry where they will stay well for winter.

Nutritional benefits
Plum compote is not only tasty but also healthy. Plums are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help maintain digestive health and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, consuming plums can help maintain bone health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of fruit?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for other fruits, such as peaches or apples. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruit.
- How can I check if the jars have sealed correctly?
Check if the lids are domed. If they do not return to their original position when pressed, the jar has sealed correctly.
- How long can the compote be stored?
Plum compote can be stored for a year if kept under proper conditions in a dark and cool place.

Variations and serving suggestions
For an extra flavor boost, you can add some spices, such as cinnamon or cloves, to the jars before sterilization. These will give the compote an exotic taste, perfect for serving with yogurt or as a filling for pastries. Additionally, plum compote pairs excellently with pancakes, muffins, or as a topping for ice cream.

Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a delicious plum compote, all that's left is to try this simple and quick recipe. It is perfect for adding a sweet and healthy touch to winter meals. Enjoy cooking and savor your plum compote on every rainy or chilly day!