Sweet and Tangy Pear Compote
[Mood & Cook #.79] Perfect for Watery or Slightly Aged Pears! Better Than Jam Recipe
Pears are in season right now, and many of you might have bought plenty for the Chuseok holiday! Here’s a wonderful way to enjoy pears, even if they’ve lost some of their crispness or sweetness. This pear compote is a delightful alternative to jam. * This recipe was originally provided as part of the National Health Insurance Service expert writer contributions in December 2020.
Ingredients
- Ripe pears, desired amount (approx. 2 pears)
- Sugar (to taste, adjust sweetness as desired)
- Chopped nuts (like walnuts, almonds), desired amount
- Raisins, desired amount
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Peel, core, and dice the pears into approximately 1.5cm cubes. Place the diced pears into a pot and start cooking over medium heat. Let them simmer gently until the pears naturally release their juices and begin to soften.
Step 2
Once the pears have softened slightly, add sugar. The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on the natural sweetness of the pears and your personal preference. Using brown sugar instead of white sugar can add a richer flavor and a more appealing color.
Step 3
After the sugar has dissolved and mixed well with the pears, stir in the chopped nuts and raisins. The nuts will add a pleasant crunch and nutty aroma, while the raisins provide a subtle sweetness and chewy texture, making the compote more complex and satisfying.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer with all ingredients. The key is to cook them just enough so that the pears retain a slight bite or crispness. Avoid overcooking, which can turn it into jam. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Aim for a texture where the pear pieces are tender but still hold their shape.
Step 5
The finished pear compote can be enjoyed warm or cold. Serve it over freshly baked bread or toast, perhaps with a layer of cream cheese, for a delightful brunch experience. It’s also wonderful as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
