Sour cherry compote (without preservatives)

Cherry compote without preservatives – A delicious and healthy recipe

Regardless of the season, cherry compote is a delicacy that reminds us of warm summers and the joy of consuming fresh fruits. This preservative-free cherry compote recipe is perfect for preserving the aroma and taste of these wonderful fruits throughout the winter. Moreover, it is a healthy option, as it contains no additives or preservatives. Let’s discover together how to prepare a tasty cherry compote, step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 800 ml

Ingredients
- 2 kg of fresh cherries
- 8 jars of 800 ml with screw caps
- 5 tablespoons of sugar for each jar
- 5 packets of vanilla sugar
- Water (approximately 2.5-3 liters, depending on the amount of cherries)

Necessary utensils
- Large pot for syrup preparation
- Baking tray
- A clean cloth
- Sterilized jars
- Wooden spoon

A brief history of cherry compote
Cherry compote has a long tradition in various cultures, being appreciated not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional properties. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. Preparing compote without preservatives has become a popular practice, rooted in traditional methods of preserving fruits, which allow the natural flavors and nutrients to be retained.

Step by Step for a Perfect Cherry Compote

1. Preparing the cherries
- Start by removing the stems from the cherries. This step is essential to ensure the fruits are clean. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Sterilizing the jars
- It is important that the jars are perfectly clean and sterile. You can do this by washing them in hot water or by sterilizing them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 120 degrees Celsius and place the jars on a tray. Leave them for 15-20 minutes to be completely sterile.

3. Filling the jars with cherries
- Place the cherries in the jars, being careful not to compress them too much. It is ideal to fill the jars halfway, but you can add more fruits if you wish. Leaving a little space will give the compote a pleasant texture.

4. Measuring the water
- After filling the jars, add water up to one finger below the jar's rim. Pour the water into a pot and measure the quantity. This will give you an idea of how much water you need to make the syrup.

5. Preparing the syrup
- In a large pot, add the measured amount of water for all the jars. Add 5 tablespoons of sugar for each jar, along with the vanilla sugar. Place the pot on the stove and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. The syrup should be clear and slightly sweetened, without being overly sweet.

6. Filling the jars with syrup
- Once the syrup is ready, carefully pour it over the cherries in each jar, ensuring that the fruits are completely covered. Screw the lids onto the jars immediately to prevent contamination.

7. Baking in the oven
- Place the jars in a tray with water, putting a cloth at the bottom of the tray to prevent scratching the jars. Preheat the oven to 100 degrees Celsius and place the tray in the oven. Leave it in the oven until you see air bubbles rising from the bottom of the jar and the first cherry slightly cracking, a sign that the compote is ready.

8. Cooling and storing
- Once the compote is ready, turn off the heat and let the jars cool in the oven until the next day. This will allow the flavors to meld. After they have cooled, move the jars to the pantry. The compote will keep well due to the appropriate amount of sugar and proper sterilization.

Practical tips
- Choosing cherries: Choose fresh, firm, and ripe fruits, as these provide the best taste and aroma. Tart cherries are ideal for compote, as they sweeten during the cooking process.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like more tart compotes, you can reduce the sugar.
- Using the syrup: The leftover syrup can be used as an ingredient in cocktails, lemonades, or to sweeten yogurt.

Variations
- Adding spices: You can experiment with adding a few peppercorns, cloves, or cinnamon to the syrup for an aromatic touch.
- Mixed fruits: Instead of cherries, you can use a combination of fruits, such as cherries, peaches, or plums for a delicious and varied compote.

Serving
Cherry compote can be enjoyed on its own, but it is also an excellent ingredient for various dishes. You can add the cherries from the compote to cakes or tarts, use them in fruit salads, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Nutritional information
Cherries are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, fiber, and important minerals. Consuming cherries can help improve cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation. Cherry compote is also an excellent way to enjoy these benefits throughout the year.

Frequently asked questions
- Can another type of sugar be used? Yes, you can use brown sugar or natural sweeteners, but the taste will be different.
- How long can the compote be stored? If prepared correctly and stored under optimal conditions, the compote can be kept for up to a year.
- Is refrigeration necessary after opening the jar? Yes, after opening the jar, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days.

Enjoy this lovingly prepared cherry compote and cherish the memories of summer even on cold winter days! Whether you enjoy it on its own or use it in various dishes, its flavors will bring a smile to your face and promote your health. Bon appétit!