Cherry and sour cherry compote

Cherry and sour cherry compote – a classic recipe, full of flavor, that will remind you of summers spent in the garden during your childhood. This compote is perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to the cold winter days, and the combination of cherries and sour cherries offers a perfect balance between sweet and tart.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Sterilization time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 14 jars of 800 g

Ingredients
- 2 kg fresh cherries
- 500 g fresh sour cherries
- 35 tablespoons of sugar (2 tablespoons and 1/2 for each jar)
- water (approximately 2-3 liters, depending on the size of the jars)

Necessary utensils
- A large bowl
- A strainer
- 800 g jars with lids
- A large pot
- A sterilization pot
- Kitchen towel
- A fruit measuring container (optional)

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the fruits
Start by washing the cherries and sour cherries. Place them in a large bowl and rinse them under cold running water to remove any impurities. After washing, remove the stems, then place the fruits in a strainer to drain excess water. It is important to ensure that the fruits are well cleaned and dried to avoid diluting the syrup.

2. Preparing the jars
While the fruits are draining, take care of the jars. Wash them well with hot water and dish soap, then rinse thoroughly. Place them upside down on a clean towel to dry completely. This step is essential to prevent contamination of the compote.

3. Filling the jars with fruits
Once the jars are dry, fill them halfway with cherries and sour cherries. You can combine them according to your preferences – if you like them more tart, add more sour cherries, and if you prefer a sweeter taste, opt for more cherries.

4. Preparing the syrup
Measure the amount of water needed using a fruit measuring container. About 2 liters of water is recommended, but you can adjust it according to the amount of fruit. Place the water in a large pot and add the sugar. Place the pot on the stove, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important not to let the syrup boil too much, as this can lead to caramelization of the sugar.

5. Filling the jars with syrup
Once the syrup is ready, pour it over the fruits in the jars, ensuring they are completely covered. Don't forget to leave a few centimeters of headspace at the top of the jar for expansion.

6. Heating the jars
Screw the lids tightly onto the jars and wrap them in white paper to protect them from direct light. Place the jars in a larger pot, filling it with water up to 3/4 of the height of the jars. Place a kitchen towel on top to prevent the jars from clinking during sterilization. Bring the water to a boil, then let them boil for 30-35 minutes.

7. Cooling and storing
After the sterilization time is over, carefully remove the jars from the pot and place them on a blanket, wrapping them well. Leave them like this until the next day, when they will cool completely. Label the jars with the preparation date and store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical tips
- Choosing the fruits: Choose fresh, ripe, but firm cherries and sour cherries. Overripe fruits can lead to an unpleasant texture in the compote.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like it more tart, reduce the sugar slightly. You can also use brown sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Variations: You can add a few mint leaves or a string of vanilla to the syrup for a fragrant note.

Nutritional benefits
Cherries and sour cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to heart health and reducing inflammation. They are also a good source of fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy weight.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen fruits?: Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain them well before using.
- How long can I keep the compote?: If sterilized correctly, the compote can be stored for 1-2 years in a cool place.
- What can I do with the compote?: It is delicious served as is, but can also be used as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Serving and combinations
Enjoy this cherry and sour cherry compote with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a delicious contrast between sweet and tart. You can also pair it with a refreshing drink, such as iced mint tea or citrus juice, to create the perfect summer meal.

In conclusion, cherry and sour cherry compote is not just a simple recipe, but an opportunity to bring a part of your summer into every winter. Enjoy the sweet-tart flavor of these fruits and savor every jar you open!