Plum compote

Delicious Plum Compote: A Classic Recipe for a Flavorful Summer

Do you want to bring summer into your pantry? Plum compote is an excellent choice, not only for its sweet-tart taste but also for the nutritional benefits of plums. This simple and quick recipe will help you preserve the flavor of fresh plums for the upcoming winter. Let's discover together how to make the perfect plum compote, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars

Ingredients:
- 500 g ripe plums
- Sugar (preferably 1 tablespoon for each jar, but you can adjust to taste)
- Water (enough to fill the jars)

Necessary utensils:
- Glass jars (preferably 400-500 ml)
- Jar lids
- A large pot for boiling
- A wooden spatula
- A knife for cutting the plums
- A container for filling the jars

A Brief Story
Plum compote is a traditional delicacy that reminds us of warm summer days and walks through the orchard. Preserving fruits has become an essential practice through which people save resources for the cold season. Plums, with their rich flavor and juicy texture, are ideal for being transformed into a savory compote. This dish is not only delicious but also full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for the whole family.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Plum Compote

1. Selecting the plums:
Choose ripe but firm plums. The color should be vibrant, and the fruits should not be bruised or damaged. Ripe plums will provide a sweeter and more aromatic compote.

2. Washing the plums:
Place the plums under a stream of cold water and wash them well to remove impurities. After washing, dry them with a clean towel.

3. Preparing the jars:
Ensure the jars are clean and sterilized. You can do this either by boiling them or by washing them in the dishwasher at high temperatures.

4. Cutting the plums:
If desired, you can cut the plums in halves or quarters, depending on your preferences. Remove the pits, but you can leave the skin on, as it will add extra flavor.

5. Filling the jars:
Place the plums in the jars, 4-5 plums in each container. Make sure the jars are filled evenly, leaving a little space at the top.

6. Adding sugar:
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the plums in each jar. If you prefer a sweeter compote, you can add more sugar, but remember that plums are already sweet!

7. Filling with water:
Fill the jars with water, leaving about 1 cm of space to the rim of the jar. This will allow for the liquid to expand during the boiling process.

8. Sealing the jars:
Make sure the lids are tightly screwed on to prevent air from entering. It is important not to tighten them too much, but they should be sealed.

9. Boiling in a water bath:
Place the jars in the large pot and fill it with water up to halfway up the jars. Boil them for 30 minutes. This process will help sterilize the compote and keep the flavors intact.

10. Cooling the jars:
After boiling, remove the jars using gloves or a jar holder. Let them cool completely on a clean towel at room temperature.

11. Storing the compote:
Once the jars have cooled, store them in the pantry, in a dark and cool place. The plum compote will be good for consumption for 6-12 months.

Serving Suggestions
Plum compote can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs excellently with various desserts or dishes. Try it with:
- Vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Rice pudding, adding the compote on top for a touch of sweetness.
- Pancakes or crepes, pouring the warm compote over them.

Interesting Variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients:
- Cinnamon or vanilla for an extra flavor boost.
- Lemon juice to intensify the taste.
- Other fruits like apples or peaches for an interesting mix.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried plums?
We do not recommend using dried plums for this recipe, as the texture and flavor of the compote will be different. Use fresh plums for the best results.

2. What should I do if the jars did not seal properly?
If you notice that the jars did not seal well, it is recommended to refrigerate them and consume them within a few days.

3. Can I freeze the plum compote?
Yes, you can freeze the compote in airtight containers, but the texture may change after thawing. It is an excellent option if you do not have jars available.

Nutritional Benefits
Plums are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Plum compote can aid digestion and support heart health. It is a perfect choice to add a touch of health to your diet!

Calories
A serving of plum compote (approximately 100 g) contains about 70-80 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. It is a light and healthy option for dessert or a snack.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! Making plum compote is a delightful activity that will fill your pantry with summer aromas. Enjoy!