Delicious and healthy dogwood compote
No one can avoid the spring slump. Some stock up on vitamins, others create a healthy diet to support their bodies. Cornelian cherry compote is unrivaled when it comes to recovery. Fresh dogwood berries remain tart for a long time, making them a rare treat in summer and fall. When made into compote, the dogwood becomes soft and sweet-tart. These berries are sure to please everyone.
The main secret lies in the drink itself: a glass of cool compote has the same effect on the body as a caffeinated energy drink. Dogwood compote quenches thirst, refreshes, tones, and energizes.
This recipe is designed for a 3-liter jar, and step-by-step photos will show you the process sequence.
Ingredients:
- dogwood - 450 g,
- sugar - 300 g,
- water - 2.7 l,
- citric acid - 1 tsp,
- star anise - 1 pc.
How to make dogwood compote
To ensure that the berries in the compote remain whole and even, use firm, ripe dogwood.
Wash the berries by placing a sieve under a strong stream of water. Shake the sieve and discard any unsuitable berries.
To preserve the compote, you'll need a sterilized three-liter jar. Pour all the weighed dogwood into the prepared container.
Add citric acid. It's absolutely essential. Without it, the compote won't last until spring.
Fill the jar with boiling water, first halfway, then up to the shoulders after a minute. Place a sterile lid on the jar neck, ensuring there are no gaps. Let the boiling water sit for 10-12 minutes.
Weigh the granulated sugar into a saucepan. Add the star anise.
Drain the pinkish water from the jar; the sugar will quickly dissolve in the warm liquid. Place the saucepan with the syrup on the stove and boil for 3 minutes.
The syrup is poured into a jar with berries. The dogwood compote is canned.
At first, the berries will appear wrinkled, but by morning they will be smooth and even. Turn the jar of compote upside down, wrap it in a blanket, and leave it overnight.
The compote will become more vibrant as it steeps. Berries that were burgundy when fresh may develop cracks, while red ones will remain whole.
The infused drink will be bright, and in glasses it will look elegant and festive.
Cornelian cherry compote can be enjoyed after intense physical exercise. Drink it hot during a cold; its effects are comparable to those of lemon and ginger tea.