Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote
Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote Recipe from USA
Introduction
Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for various desserts. The combination of sweet strawberries, tart rhubarb, and spicy ginger creates a unique and flavorful compote that is perfect for spring and summer.
History
The combination of strawberries and rhubarb has been a popular pairing in desserts for centuries. Rhubarb, a vegetable that is often treated as a fruit in cooking, has a tart flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of strawberries. The addition of ginger adds a spicy kick to the compote, making it a truly unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced fresh rhubarb (1 to 1.75 lb or 794 g)
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 orange, grated zest only
- 1 lemon, grated zest only
- 2 tbsp chopped candied ginger (optional)
- dash of kosher salt
How to prepare
- Combine all of the ingredients in a heavy nonreactive saucepan and stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is tender.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- To serve warm, reheat slowly.
- If desired, serve the compote over ice cream, frozen yogurt, or plain cake.
Variations
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh rhubarb and strawberries for the best flavor in this compote.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
- The addition of candied ginger adds a nice texture and extra flavor to the compote, but it is optional.
- Be sure to simmer the compote covered to allow the flavors to meld together and the rhubarb to soften.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the compote warm or cold over ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing dessert.
Cooking Techniques
Simmer the compote covered to allow the flavors to meld together and the rhubarb to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen rhubarb and strawberries if fresh is not available. You can also use dried ginger instead of candied ginger.
Make Ahead Tips
The compote can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the compote in individual bowls or glasses for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pairing Recommendations
Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote pairs well with vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or angel food cake. It also goes well with a glass of sparkling wine or lemonade.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote contains approximately 100 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
This compote is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.
Proteins
There is less than 1 gram of protein per serving in this compote.
Vitamins and minerals
Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, while rhubarb provides vitamin K and calcium. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Alergens
This recipe may contain allergens such as strawberries and ginger. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.
Summary
Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote is a low-calorie, low-fat dish that is rich in vitamin C and other nutrients. It is a healthy and delicious dessert option.
Summary
Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for spring and summer. With its unique combination of flavors and nutrients, it is a healthy and satisfying dessert option for any occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my Aunt Martha's house for the summer. Aunt Martha was known in our family for her delicious homemade jams and preserves, and I was always eager to learn her secrets.
One hot summer morning, Aunt Martha announced that she was going to make a special dessert for us using fresh strawberries and rhubarb from her garden. I watched as she carefully washed and chopped the fruit, adding just the right amount of sugar and ginger to create a beautiful ruby-red compote that smelled absolutely heavenly.
As I sat at the kitchen table, savoring each spoonful of the sweet and tangy compote, Aunt Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned the recipe from an old friend many years ago. She explained that the secret to a perfect compote was in the balance of flavors - the sweetness of the strawberries, the tartness of the rhubarb, and the warmth of the ginger all coming together in harmony.
From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote. I begged Aunt Martha to teach me her recipe, and she graciously agreed. Together, we spent the rest of the summer making batch after batch of the delicious compote, experimenting with different ratios of fruit and spice until we found the perfect combination.
Over the years, I have continued to make Aunt Martha's Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote for my own family and friends. I have shared the recipe with neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers who have tasted it and begged for the secret behind its deliciousness.
Each time I make the compote, I am transported back to that summer spent in Aunt Martha's kitchen, learning the art of preserving fruit and creating something truly special. I am reminded of the joy that comes from sharing a homemade treat with loved ones, and the satisfaction of knowing that a simple recipe can bring so much happiness to those who taste it.
As I grow older, I realize that the true magic of Aunt Martha's Gingered Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote lies not just in its delicious taste, but in the memories and stories that accompany it. It is a recipe that has been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist and creating new memories along the way.
I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, and for the time I spent learning from Aunt Martha in her cozy kitchen all those years ago. And as I continue to make the compote for my own family, I know that I am carrying on a tradition of love, laughter, and delicious food that will hopefully be passed down for many more generations to come.
Categories
| American Recipes | Crystallized Ginger Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Rhubarb Sauce Recipes | Strawberry Recipes |