There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of apples and pears simmering together with a touch of cinnamon or vanilla. This recipe for homemade apple and pear compote celebrates the beauty of seasonal fruits and the simplicity of traditional cooking techniques. Whether you prefer your compote smooth, slightly chunky, or filled with larger pieces, this recipe is versatile and perfect for honoring the flavors of autumn and winter fruits.
Ingredients
- Apples: ~750g (about 50% of the total fruit weight)
- Pears: ~750g (or adjust proportions to taste)
- Butter: 80-100g
- Brown sugar: 150g (can substitute with white sugar)
- Cinnamon stick or vanilla pod (choose one based on your flavor preference)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruits
Peel the apples and pears. Remove the cores, seeds, and stems. Cut the fruit into roughly even pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
2. Melt the Butter
Heat a heavy-bottomed pot or cocotte over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely, coating the base of the pot.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add the fruit pieces into the pot. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the fruits. Add a cinnamon stick or vanilla pod, depending on your chosen flavor.
4. Start Cooking
Increase the heat slightly to help the butter and sugar create a light caramel base. Stir gently to coat the fruit. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low-medium and cover the pot.
5. Simmer and Stir
Stir the mixture every 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking. Allow the fruits to cook gently for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender and easily mashed.
6. Customize the Texture
Remove the cinnamon stick or vanilla pod. For a smooth texture, blend the compote using a handheld or standard blender. For a chunkier texture, use a potato masher. Leave it as-is for a rustic, hearty feel.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the compote cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm or cold, on its own, or as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or even roasted meats.
Conclusion:
Pair this apple and pear compote with fresh bread, buttery pastries, or creamy desserts like panna cotta. For a savory twist, serve it alongside pork chops or roast chicken as a fruity accompaniment.
This compote stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for longer-term use.