Teresa's Recipes
Sweet & Tangy Cherry Compote
Indulge in the delightful burst of flavors with this Sweet & Tangy Cherry Compote. This luscious topping transforms your favorite desserts, pancakes, or yogurt into a gourmet treat. The balance of sweetness from the cherries and sugar, combined with a hint of tartness from the lemon juice, makes this compote a versatile addition to your kitchen. Historically, compotes date back to the 17th century, when they were a way to preserve fruits and enhance meals with their natural sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups, pitted and halved Cherries
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed Lemon juice
- 1/2 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon (for slurry) Water
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Condiment
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Sugar: 14g
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and mix the ingredients.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a smooth slurry.
- Once the cherry mixture is boiling, add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cherries are tender and the compote has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for an aromatic finish.
- Allow the cherry compote to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla.
- This compote pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or as a topping for cheesecake.
- Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry compote!