Description
This Easy Strawberry Compote recipe is a quick and delicious way to enhance your desserts or breakfast dishes. Made with fresh or frozen strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of water, this compote cooks down into a sweet and tangy topping perfect for pancakes, yogurt, ice cream, or toast. The simple stovetop preparation allows the strawberries to break down and release their natural juices, creating a luscious, chunky sauce that can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and halved
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Other
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the strawberries soften and begin releasing their juices.
- Mash Strawberries: Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to lightly mash some of the strawberries, if you prefer a chunkier texture in your compote.
- Add Lemon Zest: Stir in the lemon zest and continue cooking for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the compote from heat and let it cool slightly before serving or storing in the refrigerator for later use.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of your strawberries and personal preference.
- The compote can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or ice cream, or use as a topping for toast and oatmeal.
- For a smoother texture, cook longer and mash the strawberries more thoroughly.
- Lemon zest is optional but adds a fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
