Cherry or sour cherry compote

Cherry or cherry compote

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400 ml

Introduction

Cherry or cherry compote is a traditional delicacy, loved by many, that brings back fond childhood memories. This quick dessert offers a burst of flavor in every spoonful and is not only delicious but healthy too! The fruit is full of vitamins and antioxidants, and the compote can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: on its own, with yogurt, or even as a filling for cakes. So let's get to work!

Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh cherries or cherries, without blemishes
- 300 g cherry sugar (or 1 kg cherry sugar)
- 1 l cherry water (or 1.5 l cherry water)
- 400 ml jars, sterilized

Required utensils

- Large pot
- Foam paddle
- Jars with lids
- Fruit peeler (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the fruit

1. Washing the fruit: Start by thoroughly washing the cherries or cherries under cold running water. Make sure you remove all impurities from their surface.
2. Selecting fruit: Choose only firm fruit without blemishes or defects. Soft fruit will affect the texture of the compote. Defects can be used for an infusion or tea, for example.
3. Remove the stems: Break off the fruit stems, which you can keep to make a flavored tea.

Step 2: Making the syrup

1. Boiling water: In a large pot, add the water and sugar. Place the pot over the heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Boiling the syrup: Once the mixture reaches the boiling point, boil for 2-3 minutes. This will form the syrup base for the compote.

Step 3: Adding the fruit

1. Incorporating the fruit: Add the cherries or cherries to the boiling syrup. It is important not to overcrowd the pot to allow the fruit to cook evenly.
2. Boiling the fruit: Allow the fruit to boil for one simmer (about 5 minutes) so that it retains its shape and flavor.

Step 4: Bottling the compote

1. Transfer to jars: Use the foam paddle to remove the fruit from the pot and carefully place it in the jars. Leave a little headspace at the top.
2. Adding the syrup: Pour the hot syrup over the fruit, making sure they are completely covered.
3. Capping the jars: Close the jars with sterilized lids, making sure they are airtight.

Step 5: Sterilize

1. Sterilizing the jars: Place the jars in a large pot of water, making sure the water completely covers the jars. Simmer for 20-30 minutes to ensure optimal preservation.
2. Cool: Remove the jars from the water and cool completely on a clean towel.

Useful tips and tricks

- Choose fresh fruit: Seasonal fruits are the most flavorful and will make your compote truly delicious.
- Experiment with spices: You can add a cinnamon stick or some cloves to the syrup to give it a unique flavor.
- Use a cooking thermometer: If you have one, make sure the syrup reaches 100 degrees Celsius for optimal preservation.
- Sugar-free version: If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners.

Nutritional benefits

Cherries and cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants and fiber, with important benefits for the immune system, skin health and digestion. Eaten in moderation, they can help maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen cherries or cherries? Yes, but it is important to thaw and drain well before using.
- Can I add other fruits? Of course! You can combine the cherries with raspberries or peaches for a diversified compote.
- How can I keep the compote longer? Make sure the jars are well sterilized and store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions

Cherry or cherry compote can be served plain, with yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes. It's also delicious with a scoop of ice cream or in crumble cakes.

Variations

- Cherry mint compote: Add a few fresh mint leaves to the hot syrup for a refreshing taste.
- Cherry compote with vanilla: Add a light vanilla pod to the syrup for a decadent flavor.

Closing

Making a cherry or cherry compote is an enjoyable activity that combines the joy of cooking with the natural flavors of the fruit. With this simple and straightforward recipe, you'll be able to enjoy a summer delicacy all year round. Don't forget to share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: washed fruits, without stems (not soft) 300g of sugar per 1 liter of water (for cherries) 1 kg of sugar per 1.5 liters of water (for sour cherries)