Simply Stunning Strawberry Compote
Whip up this vibrant strawberry compote recipe in minutes! Perfect on scones, yogurt, or ice cream. It's pure strawberry joy! A taste of summer, all year round. ... Quick & Easy
Alright, mate, let's dive into this strawberry compote lark. seriously, who doesn't love a good fruit sauce ? today, we're making something proper tasty and versatile.
Ever wondered what to do with a glut of strawberries? this is it!
Simply Stunning Strawberry Compote: A Taste of Summer
Honestly, the idea of making strawberry compote just screams summer to me. picture this: wimbledon finals, pimm's in hand, and a dollop of this vibrant fruit topping on a warm scone.
Chef's kiss! it’s all about capturing that sweet, tangy flavour.
What's the Deal with This Compote?
This recipe takes you back, the strawberry compote has its roots in good old-fashioned preserving. a way to keep those lovely summer fruits going longer.
It’s dead easy to make, takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish and makes around 8 servings. so it's a perfect strawberry cake filling .
Why You'll Absolutely Love It
Apart from tasting flipping amazing, this strawberry compote is a bit of a nutritional winner. strawberries are packed with vitamin c, which is great for your immune system.
Plus, it's the perfect excuse to whip up a batch of scones for afternoon tea or drizzle over your brekkie.
I always serve it whenever i can, it makes everything just that bit more special.
Ready to get started? let’s check out the ingredients, then. you won't believe how simple it is to whip up this compote recipe ! it’s way better than any shop-bought strawberry sauce , trust me.
Plus, you can totally use this recipe to make a blueberry compote or any fruit compote you fancy.
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up some seriously good strawberry compote . think of it as a summer hug in a jar.
And hey, it's easier than you might think. trust me.
Simply Stunning Strawberry Compote Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: The Lowdown
Seriously, let's break down the essentials. It's not rocket science, I promise!
Main Ingredients: Strawberries, Sugar, and Sunshine!
- 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries: Go for the ones that smell amazing . Seriously, sniff 'em!
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: This balances the tartness. You know? The sweet spot.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice: Fresh is best, innit? It brightens the whole thing up.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water: Just to get things moving. Don't overthink it.
Quality? for the strawberries, look for vibrant color and firm texture. oh my gosh, that's important. squishy ones? save 'em for smoothies.
Honestly, ripe berries make a huge difference! this compote recipe is begging for 'em!
Seasoning Notes: A Dash of Magic
This is where the magic happens. Well, more magic.
- Vanilla extract (optional): 1/2 teaspoon gives it a cheeky warmth.
- Lemon zest: A tiny bit (like, a pinch) adds another layer. Ooh la la!
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon? Now that's autumn in a jar. Or ginger!
For a fruit sauce twist, consider a little balsamic vinegar (trust me!). Want a quick swap? Lime juice for lemon! Works a treat. These can all be flavor enhancers and aromatics .
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
No need for fancy gadgets. Honestly.
- Medium saucepan: Nothing too big, nothing too small.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring, obvs.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Get those quantities right!
- Jar: For storing your delicious fruit compote (sterilized if you want it to last a while).
Don't have a wooden spoon? a spatula will do. see? easy peasy. this is strawberry cake filling and fruit cake filling territory, so be prepared to get creative with your uses for it.
Strawberry sauce , blueberry compote , and other fruit toppings are all in the same realm as our strawberry compote .
So feel free to adjust the recipe slightly to make your own version! if you use the right amount of pectin you can even make your own jam.
I remember once trying to make strawberry compote with frozen strawberries. Total disaster! It was watery and sad. Use fresh, trust me on this one.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? fancy whipping up a batch of simply stunning strawberry compote ? oh my gosh, it's easier than making a cuppa! trust me, this is a cracking compote recipe that'll elevate everything from your morning brekkie to your fancy puds.
Whether you're planning to use it as a fruit cake filling , a strawberry cake filling , dollop it over some ice cream, or swirl it into your yogurt, get ready for some proper summer vibes!
Prepping Like a Pro for Strawberry Compote
Right then, before you even think about lighting the hob, a bit of prep is key. first, get your essential mise en place sorted.
That means washing and hulling about 1 pound (450g) of fresh strawberries. quarter them if they're massive, halve 'em if they're normal.
You'll also need 1/2 cup (100g) of granulated sugar, a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1/4 cup (60ml) of water.
Time-saving organization tip: get all your ingredients measured out before you start. seriously, it makes life so much easier. safety reminder: don't be a numpty! watch those fingers when hulling the strawberries.
Strawberry Compote: The Dead Easy Step-by-Step
Honestly, this fruit sauce is so simple, it practically makes itself.
- Combine Ingredients: Bung your strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water into a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a Simmer: Whack the pan on medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring now and then.
- Simmer & Thicken: Turn the heat down low and let it bubble away gently for 15- 20 minutes . You want those strawberries to soften and the strawberry compote to thicken up a bit. Visual Cue: It's ready when it coats the back of a spoon nicely.
- Vanilla Time (Optional): If you're feeling fancy, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract in the last minute.
- Cool & Store: Take it off the heat and let it cool completely before scooping it into a jar. It’ll thicken up even more as it cools.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Fruit Toppings
Want to take your fruit compote to the next level? listen up! one of the most common mistakes is overcooking it.
You'll end up with jam, not a lovely, saucy strawberry sauce . expert technique: taste as you go! adjust the sugar to your liking.
Got some leftover? you can easily make this ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a few days, or even freeze it if you're super organised.
You know, a blueberry compote variation is also banging with a similar recipe, or any other fruit toppings !
Alright, let's talk Simply Stunning Strawberry Compote extras! I'm gonna give you the lowdown.
Recipe Notes
Honestly, nailing a great strawberry compote is easy. But these tips will help! Think of them like getting a gold star.
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Beyond
This fruit sauce is so versatile! plating? a dollop on vanilla ice cream. looks proper fancy! for drinks, try it with elderflower presse.
It's banging! want something different? strawberry cake filling . use it as a fruit cake filling ! it makes a fantastic, moist layer.
Storage Secrets: Keep it Fresh!
Right, storage. once cooled, bung your strawberry compote in a sealed container. in the fridge, it'll keep for about a week.
Fancy keeping it longer? freezing is an option! use freezer-safe containers. it lasts for months. reheating? gently warm it on the stove.
Don't boil it! it needs a little stir now and again.
Switching it Up: Variations on a Theme
Feeling adventurous? Let's mix it up!
- Dietary Adaptation: Less sugar! Use a sugar substitute. Adjust to your taste. No worries.
- Seasonal Swaps: Stone fruits are lovely. In autumn, go for apple and cinnamon. So delicious! Why not even throw in some blueberry compote ? Experiment with any fruit compote you like!
Nutrition Nitty-Gritty
Okay, simplified nutrition. a small serving is about 70 calories. there is a decent hit of natural sugars. the key health benefit? it's real fruit! so, fibre and vitamins.
What's not to love? if you are looking for fruit toppings it's healthier than most!
So, there you have it! My top tips for making your strawberry compote even better. Give it a go! You'll get a killer result every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does strawberry compote last, and how should I store it?
Good question! Homemade strawberry compote will keep in the refrigerator for about a week, if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage (up to a year), you can sterilize your jars and process the compote using proper canning techniques, just like your nan used to do with her jams. Make sure the jars are properly sealed before you pop them in the pantry!
Can I freeze strawberry compote?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life. Let the strawberry compote cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using, and give it a good stir as it might separate a bit. It'll be almost as good as fresh!
My strawberry compote is too runny. How can I thicken it?
Don't fret, it happens! If your strawberry compote is too thin, you can simmer it for a bit longer, stirring frequently, to allow more of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry, then stir that into the compote and simmer for a minute or two until it thickens. Remember, it will also thicken slightly as it cools, so don't overdo it!
Can I use frozen strawberries to make strawberry compote?
Yes, you definitely can! Frozen strawberries are a handy alternative when fresh ones aren't in season. There's no need to thaw them beforehand – just add them to the saucepan as you would fresh strawberries, but you might need to cook the compote for a bit longer as they tend to release more liquid. You might also consider reducing the amount of water in the recipe by a tablespoon or two.
What's the difference between strawberry compote, jam, and sauce?
That's a cracking question! Strawberry compote is generally chunkier and cooked for a shorter time than jam, leaving it with a looser, saucier consistency. Jam, on the other hand, is cooked for longer and often uses pectin to achieve a thicker, more gelled set. Strawberry sauce is usually smoother and thinner than both, often pureed or strained. Think of it this way: compote is a quick, rustic treat, jam is for preserving, and sauce is for drizzling like a pro chef!
Is strawberry compote healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Well, it's a treat, so portion control is key, but strawberry compote does offer some nutritional perks! Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. However, remember that the added sugar contributes to the overall calorie count, so enjoy in moderation – a little dollop on your porridge is a great way to start the day, but maybe not the whole pot! Consider using less sugar or a natural sweetener like honey to make it even healthier, and remember, it's all about balance, innit?
