Cherry Compote
Cherry compote is a delightful and versatile sauce that enhances the flavor of a variety of dishes. Made by cooking fresh or frozen cherries with a bit of sugar and a splash of lemon juice, this sauce offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Whether you’re topping a stack of pancakes, spooning it over creamy cheesecake, or serving it alongside savory meats like pork or duck, cherry compote adds a touch of elegance and rich flavor to any meal. This simple yet delicious recipe is easy to make and can be stored for later use, making it a great addition to your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust according to sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for added tang)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for flavor depth)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (for dissolving cornstarch)
How to Make Cherry Compote:
Prepare the Cherries
If using fresh cherries, start by washing and pitting them. You can use a cherry pitter or simply cut the cherries in half and remove the pits manually. If you’re using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Frozen cherries are a convenient option, especially when fresh cherries are out of season.
Cook the Cherries
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and ¼ cup of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. As the cherries cook, they will release their juices and create a flavorful sauce.
Thicken the Compote (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker compote, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering cherry mixture while stirring constantly. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. For a thinner compote, you can skip the cornstarch or add more water.
Add Vanilla Extract (Optional)
If you’d like to add a warm, subtle flavor, stir in the vanilla extract after the compote has thickened. This step is optional but can enhance the overall flavor, especially if you’re serving the compote with desserts.
Cool and Serve
Once the cherry compote has thickened and the cherries are soft but still retain their shape, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the compote cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. For a chilled compote, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator.
Store the Compote
Transfer any leftover compote to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To serve, simply reheat the compote gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Chef’s Note:
Adjusting Sweetness:
The sweetness of the cherries can vary depending on whether they are fresh or frozen and their ripeness. Taste the compote as it cooks and adjust the sugar accordingly. For a less sweet compote, reduce the sugar, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Using Frozen Cherries:
Frozen cherries are an excellent substitute for fresh ones, especially when cherries are out of season. They often come pitted and are ready to use straight from the freezer. However, keep in mind that frozen cherries may release more liquid, so you may need to cook the compote for a few extra minutes to reduce the sauce.
Thickening Options:
If you prefer a thicker compote, the cornstarch slurry is an easy way to thicken the sauce without affecting the flavor. You can also let the compote cook longer to naturally reduce and thicken. If you want a looser sauce, omit the cornstarch altogether.
Flavor Variations:
While this recipe keeps it simple with lemon juice and vanilla extract, you can customize the compote by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add depth and is a great addition if you’re serving the compote with savory dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
Cherry compote is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a fruity breakfast topping. Use it as a sauce for cheesecake, ice cream, or pound cake for dessert. It also pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted duck, grilled pork chops, or chicken. For a quick snack, stir it into yogurt or oatmeal.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 40
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin C: 6% of Daily Value
- Vitamin A: 2% of Daily Value
- Iron: 1% of Daily Value
Cherry compote is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich topping that brings the natural goodness of cherries to your meals. Cherries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making this sauce a healthy addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Low in fat and cholesterol-free, homemade cherry compote is a wholesome alternative to store-bought syrups and sauces. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or dinner, this delicious compote is a perfect way to enjoy cherries year-round!