Cherry Compote with Cognac

 Ingredients: - 1 kg cherries, pitted (approx. 1.250 kg with pits) - 500 g sugar - juice from 1/2 lemon - 4 teaspoons brandy

To create a delicious cherry syrup, we start by selecting fresh, ripe cherries, which we will carefully wash under a stream of cold water. The cherries should be firm and fragrant, without signs of damage. After washing them, we drain them well to remove excess water. It is essential to use a larger and deeper pot so that we have enough space to boil the cherries without risking overflow.

In the pot, we add the cherries along with 150 ml of water. We place the pot over medium heat and let the cherries boil for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they do not stick to the bottom of the pot. During this time, the cherries will begin to soften, releasing their natural juice. This is the ideal moment to add the sugar, stirring gently until it dissolves completely. The sugar not only sweetens the syrup but also helps to preserve it.

After the sugar has dissolved, we add the lemon juice, which will add a note of acidity and enhance the flavor of the cherries. Additionally, the brandy will bring an extra complexity to the syrup, transforming it into a delight. We continue to boil the mixture for another 15 minutes, or until the cherries are completely soft and the liquid becomes syrupy and a beautiful dark purple color.

To check the consistency of the syrup, we take a spoonful of liquid and let it sit on a small plate for 30 seconds. Then, with our finger, we test the syrup; if it wrinkles upon pressure, it means it is ready to be bottled.

We prepare the jars, ensuring they are clean and sterilized. A good solution is to leave them in a slightly heated oven, so they are warm at the time of filling. Using a ladle, we carefully pour the hot syrup into the prepared jars, filling them almost to the brim. Once all the jars are filled, we seal them tightly and place them between blankets or towels to cool gradually. This process helps create a natural vacuum, essential for preserving the syrup. The next day, the syrup will be ready to be enjoyed, either as an ingredient in various desserts or as a delicious topping for ice cream or pancakes.

 Tags:  sugar fruits cherries gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes vegetarian recipes recipes for children fat-free recipes