How to Make Strawberry Compote
Making strawberry compote is simple and quick! It’s a great topping for desserts like vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for balance and brightness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance sweetness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, wash and hull them (remove the green tops), then slice them into halves or quarters. If using frozen strawberries, you can use them straight from the freezer.
- Cook the Compote: In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: As the strawberries heat up, they will release their juices. Let the mixture come to a simmer, and cook for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how thick you want your compote. Stir occasionally and mash the strawberries with a spoon or potato masher if you like a smoother texture.
- Add Lemon and Vanilla: Once the strawberries have softened and the compote has thickened slightly, stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract (if using). This will balance the sweetness and add some depth of flavor.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the compote cool to room temperature. If you want a thicker consistency, you can continue simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Serve: Pour the compote over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or enjoy it on yogurt or cheesecake!
Tips:
- For a thicker compote: If you want a thicker consistency, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then add it to the simmering compote to help thicken it.
- Spices: For extra flavor, you can add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon while cooking the compote.
- Sweetness: Taste the compote as it cooks, and adjust the sugar depending on how sweet the strawberries are.
How Long Does Strawberry Compote last
Strawberry compote can last about 1 to 2 weeks when stored properly in the fridge.
Storage Tips:
- Airtight Container: Store the compote in an airtight container or jar to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Always keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and prevent spoilage.
- Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, strawberry compote can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
Signs of Spoilage:
- Off smell or unusual appearance (such as mold).
- Water separation (although this can sometimes happen when the compote is refrigerated, it’s still safe if you give it a good stir).
For best results, try to use the compote within a week or so, especially if you’ve added any fresh ingredients like lemon juice or vanilla extract.
Would you like tips on using up extra compote if you make a big batch?
What to Serve With Strawberry Compote
Strawberry compote is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of desserts and breakfast dishes. Here are some great ideas for serving strawberry compote:
1. Vanilla Ice Cream
Strawberry compote makes a delicious topping for vanilla ice cream, adding a sweet and fruity contrast to the creamy base.
2. Pancakes or Waffles
Pour the strawberry compote over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a fresh, sweet topping that elevates your breakfast or brunch.
3. Yogurt or Greek Yogurt
Top a bowl of yogurt with strawberry compote for a quick and healthy snack. Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and tang to balance the sweetness of the compote.
4. Cheesecake
Strawberry compote is a classic topping for cheesecake, providing a fresh, fruity contrast to the rich, creamy texture of the cake.
5. Cakes and Cupcakes
Add strawberry compote to cake slices or cupcakes, especially those made with vanilla, chocolate, or sponge cake, for a flavorful and colorful touch.
6. Oatmeal or Porridge
Stir a spoonful of strawberry compote into your morning oatmeal or porridge for a fruity, comforting start to your day.
7. Scones or Biscuits
Serve strawberry compote alongside scones or biscuits, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
8. Ice Cream Sundaes
Layer strawberry compote in an ice cream sundae with other toppings like whipped cream, nuts, and chocolate syrup.
9. Toast or Croissants
Spread strawberry compote on buttered toast or flaky croissants for a delicious breakfast or afternoon treat.
10. Pavlova or Meringue
Top a pavlova or meringue dessert with strawberry compote to add a burst of flavor and color to the delicate sweetness.
11. Crepes
Fill or top crepes with strawberry compote and a drizzle of whipped cream for a perfect dessert or brunch dish.
12. Baked Goods
- Cinnamon rolls: Use it as a topping for freshly baked cinnamon rolls for a fruity twist.
- Muffins: Serve on the side or drizzle it over your muffins, particularly ones with vanilla, almond, or lemon flavors.
13. Cottage Cheese or Ricotta
Spoon some compote over a bowl of cottage cheese or ricotta for a light, refreshing snack.
Strawberry compote adds a lovely burst of flavor to so many dishes! Would you like a
specific recipe or serving suggestion for any of these ideas?
Conclusion:
This compote is perfect for topping not just ice cream, but also pastries, cakes, and even to mix into oatmeal or granola!
