Apple and Pear Compote

This delightful apple and pear compote is a comforting and sweet treat perfect for any season. Combining the subtle sweetness of apples and pears, this compote is enriched with the warm flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves. Whether served warm or cold, it makes a delicious accompaniment to desserts or can be enjoyed on its own. The preparation might take a little effort, but the result is a pot of golden, fragrant compote that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Using fresh, ripe fruits, you can preserve the essence of fall in jars, ready to be savored during the colder months. Ideal for breakfast toppings, desserts, or a sweet snack, this compote is versatile and satisfying. Feel free to experiment with the spice levels to suit your taste; a little extra cinnamon can add a warming touch on a chilly day. The method includes a step of letting the flavors marry in the jars, creating a more intense taste over time. It's an old-fashioned delight that never goes out of style and makes for charming homemade gifts too. Plus, a shelf-full of these in your pantry will ensure a burst of summer in every spoonful during winter.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 kg apples
• 2 kg pears
• 7 liters water
• 900 g sugar

Spices

• 1 packet vanilla sugar
• 25 cloves
• 5 - 10 g ground cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total: 70 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Carefully quarter the **apples** and **pears**, removing the cores for a cleaner compote.
2. Place the prepared fruit pieces in previously sterilized jars, ensuring they are stacked neatly.
3. Boil the water in a kettle and pour it over the apples and pears in the jars, letting them sit for about 20 minutes to cool slightly.
4. After 20 minutes, carefully drain the liquid from the jars into a pot, reserving the fruit in the jars.
5. Add **sugar**, **vanilla sugar**, **cloves**, and **cinnamon** to the pot with the drained liquid.
6. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the spices infuse the liquid.
7. Pour the spiced syrup back over the fruit in the jars, filling them to the top.
8. Secure the jars with lids tightly, ensuring they are airtight.
9. For better preservation, turn the jars upside down and leave them to cool in a cool place.
10. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool cellar or pantry until ready to serve. They can last through winter when stored properly.
11. Enjoy the compote on its own, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
12. If giving as gifts, decorating the jars with labels or ribbons can add a personal touch.
13. This compote also works well as a breakfast side with oatmeal or yogurt.
14. The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld, creating a richer taste with time.
15. Feel free to adjust spice amounts if desired; more cinnamon can bring additional warmth.
16. For a different taste, consider adding other seasonal fruits like plums or berries.
17. To make it even spicier, you can add a touch of nutmeg or allspice.
18. If you prefer a less sweet compote, reduce the sugar content slightly.
19. Remember to always use fresh, quality ingredients for the best results.
20. Label each jar with the preparation date for easy reference.

Tips

• **Sterilize the jars** thoroughly before use to ensure the compote is preserved safely.
• You can substitute **honey** for sugar for a more natural sweet flavor.
• **Adjust spices** to your liking – more cinnamon or adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the taste.
• This compote can be used as a base for **fruit tarts** or as a filling for pastries.
• Pair it with savory dishes like roasted meat for an interesting **flavor contrast**.

Nutritions

Calories: 250 per serving, Protein: 0.5g, Fat: 0g, Carbohydrates: 65g.

Variations

• To make it diabetic-friendly, use a **sugar substitute** like stevia.
• Include **lemon zest** for a citrusy twist and additional freshness.
• Add a **splash of brandy** for an adult version with a richer flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with vanilla ice cream for a cooling, sweet contrast.
• Use as a topping on pancakes or waffles for a fruity breakfast treat.
• Pair with roasted duck or pork to add a sweet accompaniment to savory dishes.

Best Places

• The Pie Shop - Known for its diverse range of fruit compotes. Location: 123 Main St, London, UK.
• Sweet Delights - A classic café offering homemade desserts with compote toppings. Location: 456 Baker St, Sydney, Australia.
• Fruit Fantasy - Specializes in fruit-based treats including unique compote blends. Location: 789 Orchard Ave, New York, USA.
• Bistro de Compote - Offers a rustic dining experience with compote as a key element. Location: 321 Gourmet Rd, Paris, France.
• Apple & Pear Haven - Focuses on artisanal fruit preserves. Location: 654 Kiwi Lane, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Rustic Preserves - Known for traditional compote in a cosy setting. Location: 987 Maple Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
• The Compote Corner - Famous for their bold and innovative compote flavors. Location: 159 Berry St, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Preserve & Serve - Offers gourmet canning workshops and tastings. Location: 753 Preserve Ave, Berlin, Germany.
• Compote Creations - High-end restaurant featuring compote-infused dishes. Location: 842 Compote Way, Tokyo, Japan.
• Jar of Joy - Boutique shop with a focus on high-quality compotes. Location: 268 Orchard Rd, Singapore, Singapore.