This flavorful nectarine compote is easy to make and ready in no time. It's great for breakfast on top of muesli or waffles and amazing as a light summer dessert.
Making nectarine compote is easy and so satisfying. It tastes amazing, better than you would even think, and it is so versatile.
From breakfast to dessert, you can serve it on its own; it can be added to other desserts; you can even serve it as a small side dish for savory dishes, like roasted duck breast, for instance. Try this delicious Apricot Sauce or make some Stewed Pears, too.
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Recipe ingredients
Nectarines: This recipe is a good one to have when you happen to buy nectarines that are not perfectly ripe and soft. And that happens quite often, doesn't it?
- Peaches work just as well. You can also make the compote with frozen peach or nectarine slices.
- Try this popular Nectarine Cake or make Nectarine Muffins.
Sugar or brown sugar, or another sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners like stevia or xylitol.
You can add berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) or diced apples. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
How to make nectarine compote?
Step #1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Meanwhile, score an X on the bottom of each peach.
Step #2: Prepare an ice bath. Blanch the peaches for 30 seconds.
Step #3: Drain them in a colander and transfer them to the ice bath for 1 minute to stop the cooking.
Step #4: Remove the peel with a small knife.
Step #5: Slice the fruit and place it in a saucepan with all the other ingredients.
Step #6: Cook for 5 to 8 minutes and adjust the taste with lemon juice. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Consistency
I cook the nectarine compote for only 5 to 8 minutes because I like the fruit to keep its shape.
If you prefer a less chunky compote, cook the fruit for about 10 minutes until it starts to break down. Mash lightly with the back of a spoon if you wish.
Make ahead and store
The nectarine compote can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can make a larger batch of compote and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, you will have something to add to your breakfast, for instance, for several days. It will keep well for up to one week.
Reheat it or serve it directly from the fridge.
Freeze the compote for up to 3 months.
Nectarine Compote
Ingredients
- 8-9 nectarines about 2.2 lbs/ 1 kg, Note 1
- 3 tablespoons sugar Note 2
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- ยฝ stick cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Peel nectarines: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score the bottom of each nectarine with an X. Place them in the boiling water and blanch for about 30 seconds. Drain and place in an ice bath or very cold water for about 1 minute. You should be able to remove the skin very easily now; it will start releasing where you scored the X, so start peeling it off there.8-9 nectarines
- Slice the nectarines. Place them in a saucepan and add the sugar, lemon juice, water, cinnamon stick, vanilla, and salt. Combine very gently.3 tablespoons sugar + 2 tablespoons lemon juice + 2 tablespoons water + ยฝ stick cinnamon + 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract + a pinch of salt
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer on medium-low heat and cook gently for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally and carefully. The liquid should reduce slightly, and the nectarines should be soft but not mushy; they should still hold their shape.
- Consistency: If you prefer a less chunky compote, cook the fruit for about 10 minutes until it starts to break down. Mash them lightly with the back of a spoon if you wish. Adjust the taste with more lemon juice, if necessary.
Notes
- Substitute nectarines with peaches.
- Sugar: You can also use brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, stevia, or xylitol (to taste).ย
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months.ย
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