Plum compote

Plum Compote with Cinnamon - A Fall Delicacy

Do you remember the sweet and inviting aroma of the plum compote that filled your grandmother's kitchen? This plum compote recipe is not just an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits, but also a journey back in time, where each jar represents a story full of nostalgia. With a perfect combination of sweet plums and cinnamon, this compote is sure to become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Sterilization time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars

Ingredients:
- 1 kg plums (choose well-ripened, preferably sweet varieties)
- 20 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 100 ml lemon juice (about one medium lemon)
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks (or more, depending on taste)
- water (enough to cover the jars)

Preparing the Plums:
1. Washing the Plums: Start by washing the plums well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Removing the stems is essential, so make sure to clean them carefully.
2. Preparing the Jars: In the meantime, prepare the jars: ensure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this by placing them in hot water or using a sterilization program in the dishwasher.

Making the Compote:
1. Boiling the Sugar: In a large pot, add 5 jars of water, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix the ingredients well to dissolve the sugar.
2. Adding the Plums: Once the mixture comes to a boil, add the plums. You can add all the plums at once if the pot allows. Let the plums boil for 2 minutes. This step helps infuse the plums with the flavors of the other ingredients.
3. Removing the Plums: Use a slotted spoon to remove the boiled plums from the pot. Carefully place them in the jars, being careful not to break them.

Finishing the Compote:
1. Adding the Cinnamon: In the remaining liquid on the heat, add the cinnamon sticks and mix well to diffuse the aroma into the liquid. Turn off the heat.
2. Filling the Jars: Carefully pour the warm liquid into the jars, ensuring the plums are completely covered. Before putting on the lids, place a knife blade under each jar to prevent them from cracking during sterilization.
3. Sterilization: Place the jars in a large pot, fill with water up to the neck of the jars, and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, sterilize the jars for 15-20 minutes, depending on your altitude (the higher you are, the longer it takes).
4. Cooling: After sterilization, leave the jars for a few minutes in the pot, then remove them and wrap them in a towel. Let them cool completely until the next day.

Storing the Compote:
After they have cooled, move the jars to a pantry or cellar. Plum compote keeps well and can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Nutritional Benefits:
Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, which help maintain a healthy immune system and digestion. Plum compote is a healthy option for desserts or snacks, with a caloric content of approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Practical Tips:
- If you prefer a tarter compote, you can reduce the amount of sugar or add a few slices of lemon to the jars.
- Experiment with other spices, such as cloves or vanilla, to customize your compote.
- Instead of using plums, you can also try other fruits, such as peaches or apricots, using the same method.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why should I sterilize the jars? Sterilizing the jars prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring your compote stays fresh.
2. Can I use canned plums? It is recommended to use fresh plums for the best taste and flavor.
3. How long does the compote last? Plum compote can last up to 1 year if stored properly.

Serving and Pairings:
Plum compote is delicious served as is, but it can also be added to various desserts, such as pancakes, yogurt, or on a slice of toast. Try serving it with vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert. It also pairs perfectly with a warm drink, such as mint tea, for a relaxing evening.

This plum compote with cinnamon is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also an opportunity to reconnect with the culinary traditions of your childhood. Preserve the taste of summer and enjoy it throughout the winter!