Quince compote for winter

Quince compote for winter

Cooking is an art, and making quince compote is a tradition that connects us to the beautiful memories of childhood, to the fragrant winters, and to the moments spent around the table, savoring seasonal delights. Quinces, with their delicate aroma and unique texture, are perfect for transforming into a delicious compote that will bring a touch of warmth to chilly days. This simple and quick quince compote recipe is ideal for preserving the taste of summer until winter.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 4-5 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients
- 2 kg quinces
- 2 liters of water
- 750 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

Necessary utensils
- A large pot for boiling
- Skimmer
- Glass jars with lids
- Lid for sterilization
- Clean towel for covering

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the quinces
Start by washing the quinces well under a stream of cold water to remove impurities. After cleaning them, place them to drain in a basket or on a clean towel. This step is essential, as wet quinces can dilute the syrup and affect the final texture of the compote.

Step 2: Preparing the syrup
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and 750 g of sugar. Add the two packets of vanilla sugar for extra flavor. Place the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. This is the sweet and aromatic base of your compote.

Step 3: Peeling and cutting the quinces
Once the syrup has started boiling, take the quinces, peel them, and cut them into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Quinces can sometimes be harder to cut, so use a sharp knife and careful cutting technique to achieve uniform shapes.

Step 4: Cooking the quinces
Once the syrup is ready, carefully add the quinces to the pot. Let them boil for just 2-3 minutes to preserve their shape and texture. Quinces do not need a long boiling time; otherwise, they will become too soft.

Step 5: Bottling the compote
Use a skimmer to remove the boiled quinces and arrange them carefully in the prepared jars. Make sure the jars are clean and dry before filling them. Once all the jars are filled, pour the hot syrup over the quinces, leaving a small space at the top.

Step 6: Sterilization
After filling the jars, place the lids on and prepare a water bath. Place the jars in hot water and let them sterilize for 30 minutes. This step is essential to prevent bacterial growth and ensure long-term preservation.

Step 7: Cooling
After sterilization, let the jars cool in the water they boiled in, covering them with a clean towel. This will help maintain a constant temperature, preventing the bottles from breaking.

Useful tips
- Quinces can sometimes be hard to find, but look for them in season when they are the most aromatic and juicy.
- You can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or cloves to give your compote an exotic touch.
- If you prefer a less sweet compote, reduce the amount of sugar by 100-200 g, depending on your taste.

Nutritional benefits
Quinces are very rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and have a high fiber content, making them beneficial for digestion. Consuming quince compote can help strengthen the immune system and improve skin health.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned quinces?
- It is recommended to use fresh quinces to achieve the best taste and texture.

2. How can I preserve the compote for a longer time?
- Make sure the jars are well sterilized and store them in a cool, dark place.

3. Can I add other fruits to the compote?
- Yes, you can combine quinces with apples or pears for a more complex flavor.

Serving and combinations
Quince compote can be enjoyed on its own, but it is also an excellent accompaniment to various desserts, such as pancakes, ice cream, or muffins. Additionally, you can add a spoonful of quince compote on top of creamy yogurt for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

We conclude this recipe with a personal thought: each jar of quince compote is a sweet memory and a joy you can share with your loved ones. So, don't hesitate to enjoy the cooking process and bring smiles to the faces of your dear ones with this winter delight!