Fresh apple or pear compote
4 servings
30 minutes
Compote made from fresh apples or pears is a traditional refreshing drink of European cuisine, perfect for summer days or cozy winter evenings. This aromatic drink has a soft, sweet-fruity taste that can be enhanced with notes of lemon or orange zest and cinnamon. Such compotes were first made in medieval Europe when fruits were boiled in water with sugar to create a pleasant treat. It is used as a standalone drink or as a base for desserts. Compote can be served hot or chilled and can also have berries or honey added for flavor richness. Its simplicity in preparation makes it a favorite recipe in families that appreciate natural and healthy drinks.
1
Cut the peeled apples into 6-8 pieces and remove the core. To prevent the peeled apples from darkening, they should be placed in cold water slightly acidified with lemon juice before cooking.
2
Pour sugar into a pot, add 2 cups of hot water, add chopped apples, and simmer for 10-15 minutes (depending on the apple variety) until the apples become soft.
- Sugar: 0.8 glass
- Apple: 500 g
3
Add lemon or orange zest, or cinnamon to the prepared compote. If the compote is made from ripe Antonovka apples, there is no need to boil them, just bring to a boil.
- Lemon zest: to taste
- Orange zest: to taste
- Cinnamon sticks: to taste
4
The compote from fresh pears is prepared similarly, but less sugar can be used (depending on the sweetness of the pears). Boil the compote for 10-15 minutes. If the pears are very ripe, just bringing the compote to a boil is enough. Cool the finished compote and pour it into bowls.