Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups choke cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars with lids
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine choke cherries, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth.
6. Pour the compote into sterilized jars and seal tightly.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering.
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of compote.
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tbsp
Calories: 25
Total fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Choke cherries can be substituted with other tart fruits like cranberries or sour cherries.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice or apple cider vinegar.
- Cinnamon stick can be substituted with ground cinnamon.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Stir in some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist.
- Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a cherry pitter to easily remove the pits from the choke cherries.
- Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter and cause burns.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference.
Storage Instructions:
Store the compote in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the compote in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the compote in a small bowl or ramekin with a spoon for easy serving.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs like mint or basil.
Pairings:
Serve the compote with cheese and crackers, toast, or as a topping for ice cream.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the compote with roasted pork or chicken, or as a side dish for Thanksgiving dinner.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the compote is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the compote is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food Safety Advice:
- Use sterilized jars to prevent bacterial growth.
- Refrigerate the compote after opening and use within 2 weeks.
Food History:
Choke cherries are native to North America and were traditionally used by Native Americans for food and medicine.
Flavor Profiles:
The choke cherry compote is tart and sweet with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the choke cherry compote as a condiment or topping for various dishes.
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