Fruit Compote

Ingredients

• 500g mixed fresh or frozen fruit (e.g., berries, apples, pears, plums, peaches)
• 100 ml water
• 50g caster sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the fruit)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method

Makes 500 ml

1. If using fresh fruit, wash it, peel it (if necessary), and chop it into bitesized pieces. Frozen fruit can be used directly from the freezer.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the fruit, water, and sugar.
3. Place the saucepan on medium heat and gently simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir and cook for 10 - 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to soften and release its juices.
4. If the compote seems too thick, add 1 - 2 tablespoons of water until it reaches the desired consistency.
5. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a clean jar or container. The compote will thicken slightly as it cools.

Storage

Store the compote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Usage

Spoon warm or chilled over pancakes, waffles, French toast, muffins, scones and toasted sourdough.
Swirl into yoghurt, whipped cream or cottage cheese.
Drizzle over porridge, overnight oats, ice cream and frozen yoghurt.
Top Cheesecake, Pavlova, Panda Cotta.
Glaze meat while grilling or barbecuing.
Fill crepes and pastries.
Use as an ingredient for cocktails and cocktails.
Drizzle over cheese salads.