Dried Fruit Compote
This is an absolute go-to dish for people taking pain medication. Why? Because many pain meds, especially opiates, can stop up the works, if you get my meaning. This isn’t your typical fiber-laden, tasteless concoction. (Can you say bran muffin?) In addition to prunes, the traditional remedy, this compote also includes dried apricots and cherries, and we’ve also brought ginger and cardomom to the party. The result is a delicious compote that smells incredible while it’s cooking and goes great over oatmeal or on toast. For those days when you need a kick start, this blend will nudge you in the right direction. Believe me, it works. Before cooking the compote, it’s best to soak the fruit for a few hours, or preferably overnight, so plan ahead. This is great served warm or at room temperature.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 4 to 5 cups
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Combine the prunes, apricots, cherries, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and salt in a saucepan and add water to cover. Soak overnight, if possible, or for a few hours before cooking.
Step 2
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat and gently simmer for about 1 hour, until the fruit is very, very soft and the liquid is syrupy. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from the heat. Remove and discard the cinnamon sticks.
Variation
Step 3
Goes with Best Oatmeal Ever (page 128), Creamy Millet (page 136), and Creamiest Buckwheat (page 138).
rebecca’s notes
Step 4
You can use dried apples, pears, figs, or any combination of dried fruit to equal 3 cups.
Step 5
The compote is a versatile condiment that crosses culinary boundaries and can be used on both sweet and savory dishes. Stir it into yogurt, spoon it alongside a sweet potato, or serve it atop oatmeal. You can even use it like jam: spread a dollop on a piece of toast with almond butter.
storage
Step 6
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 7 days or in the freezer for 2 months.
nutrition information
Step 7
(per serving)
Step 8
Calories: 303
Step 9
Total Fat: 0g (0g saturated, 0g monounsaturated)
Step 10
Carbohydrates: 70g
Step 11
Protein: 3g
Step 12
Fiber: 12g
Step 13
Sodium: 85mg
