Whole pear compote

Whole pear compote – a taste of autumn in every jar

Who doesn't fondly remember the aromas of autumn, when fruits are fully ripening and the days are still warm? Whole pear compote is a traditional recipe that takes us back to childhood, to jars filled with goodies lovingly prepared by mothers and grandmothers. This simple and delicious recipe can be made with fresh pears from the garden and is ideal for preserving the taste of summer during the cold winter days. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect compote, full of flavor and aroma.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 4 kilograms of firmer pears (it is ideal to use autumn pears, such as Williams pears)
- 800 grams of sugar
- 4 liters of water
- Juice of one lemon (about 50 ml)
- One teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
- 2 aspirin (for preservation)

A bit of history:
Pear compote is an ancient method of preserving fruits, dating back to ancient times when people sought solutions to keep fruits fresh and edible throughout the winter. Preparing compote not only helps preserve the fruits but also enriches their taste, giving them a sweet-sour note that pairs wonderfully with festive meals.

Preparing the compote:

1. Selecting the pears: Choose healthy pears, without spots or bruises. Firmer pears are ideal as they maintain their shape and texture during boiling. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Sterilizing the jars: It is essential to have clean and sterilized jars to prevent spoilage of the compote. You can do this by boiling the jars and lids for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher on the sterilization cycle.

3. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, add 4 liters of water, 800 grams of sugar, the lemon juice, and cinnamon (if desired). Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.

4. Dissolving the aspirin: In a glass of water, dissolve the two aspirins. This step helps preserve the compote, giving it a longer shelf life.

5. Filling the jars: Place the whole pears in the jars, leaving a space of 3-4 centimeters between the tops of the pears and the lid. Pour the syrup over the pears, ensuring they are completely covered.

6. Boiling the compote: In a larger pot, place a kitchen towel on the bottom to prevent direct contact of the jars with the bottom of the pot. Fill the pot with water halfway and bring to a boil. Once the water has started boiling, place the jars in the pot, cover with a lid, and boil for 30 minutes.

7. Cooling and storing: After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and cover the jars with a kitchen towel. Allow them to cool completely until the next day. This step is important to ensure a proper seal of the jars. Once cooled, store them in the pantry or cellar, where they will remain tasty and aromatic until winter.

Delicious variations:
If you want to experiment, you can cut the pears into slices or cubes instead of leaving them whole. Also, instead of cinnamon, you can add vanilla sugar for a sweeter and more delicate taste. These variations not only add diversity but also personality to your compote.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the jars are well sealed. If you notice that a jar is not airtight, consume it immediately.
- Pear compote can be perfectly paired with vanilla ice cream or used as a filling for cakes.
- This recipe can be a fun family activity, where the little ones can help arrange the pears in the jars. By sharing recipes and beautiful moments, you will create unforgettable memories.

Nutritional benefits:
Pears are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. This pear compote recipe not only offers a delicious taste but also helps maintain digestive health, having a low-calorie content (approximately 65 calories per 100 grams of compote).

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can other fruits be used for compote?
Yes! You can combine pears with apples, peaches, or plums for a diversified compote.

2. How long can pear compote be stored?
If stored in a cool, dark place, compote can last up to a year.

3. Can I use natural sweeteners instead of sugar?
Of course! Natural sweeteners like stevia or honey can be used, but you may need to adjust the quantities.

This whole pear compote recipe will not only enrich your pantry but also bring joy on cold winter days, bringing with it warm memories of autumn. So, get ready to savor every spoonful of this delicious compote! Enjoy!