How to Make Compote

Fruit compote is a cooked dessert using any kind of fruits or berries--either fresh or frozen. Chopped nuts are a compatible addition, and some clever cooks use dried fruits that they've soaked in liqueurs or herbal teas to enhance the flavors of the fruits. Particularly popular during the holidays in the United States, compotes go well with ice cream, whipped cream and garnishes.
The beauty of compote is that there are no rules for what's right or wrong. You can customize your ingredients list to your taste. A bonus is the ease of preparation. This delightful cherry compote will reward you with a luxurious dessert and rave reviews.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4 c. fresh cherries 1 c. water 3 c. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla or almond extract 1 tbsp. cherry or blackberry brandy Ice cream or pound cake Whipped cream Chocolate sprinkles

1. Wash and drain the cherries and pat dry. Remove the pits carefully so that the cherries are either halved or as intact as possible.

2. Bring water and sugar to a boil in a heavy saucepan, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. When the mixture begins to produce foam, scoop it off with a slotted spoon. Discard the foam.

3. When the mixture boils, lower the heat to simmer. Continue to stir until you no longer see any sugar crystals.

4. Add the cherries and vanilla or almond extract. Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. The compote will thicken during this time.

5. Stir in the cherry or blackberry brandy, and blend thoroughly. Remove compote from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. Make sure that it chills for at least 2 hours prior to serving.

6. Serve the chilled compote over ice cream or pound cake. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with chocolate sprinkles.

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