Introduction to Strawberry Compote
Strawberry compote is a delightful and easy-to-make addition to your spring recipes. All it requires are a handful of fresh strawberries, a touch of sugar, and a splash of water or juice. Within approximately ten minutes of cooking, you can create a deliciously sweet and tangy topping that pairs wonderfully with breakfast items or desserts.
Ideal Ingredients and Preparation
To begin your compote, gather 1 pound of fresh strawberries. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly, pat them dry, and hull them correctly. To hull, insert a knife at an angle beneath the leaf cap, twist gently, and remove the leaves along with the white core. For very large strawberries, cut them in halves or quarters, while smaller ones can remain whole.
Cooking Process for Compote
Once you have prepared the strawberries, place them in a saucepan. Add just 2 tablespoons of sugar and 3 tablespoons of orange juice or water. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Allow the strawberries to simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes until they become soft and the liquid thickens. This is where the magic happens, turning your fresh strawberries into an exquisite compote.
After simmering, taste your compote and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If you find that it’s too thin, you can mix 1 tablespoon of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and incorporate it into the mixture. Remember, if you’re using frozen fruit, you might need a bit more cornstarch to achieve the desired thickness.
Once your compote has cooled completely, transfer it to a clean pint jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—perfect for adding a splash of flavor to your meals!
