Pear Compote
Pear Compote! This easy to prepare, yet luxurious, pear topping can be served over everything from desserts to breakfast foods, or used as a spread on cheese boards.
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 Bosc pears peeled, cored and diced
- ⅔ cup chardonnay or apple juice or pear nectar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- cinnamon stick
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (except vanilla bean paste) in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the pears are softened and slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract.
- Cool slightly then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a smoother compote, pulse the compote in a food processor to desired consistency.
- If the liquid evaporates before the pears are fully softened, add a few more tablespoons of wine, water or juice and continue to cook until the pears have softened.
- Sweeten with honey instead of sugar.
- Make a spiced pear compote by using mixture of your favorite spices such as nutmeg, cloves or anise.
- Pair the pear with another fruit such as cranberries or apples.
- Add a savory herb such as rosemary or sage to infuse with flavor and aroma.
- Toss a knob of fresh ginger into the mix as it stews to give it a spicy kick. (Remove it before serving.)
- Squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the mixture for a hint of acidity and brightness.