Learning how to make berry compote is simple and should be a staple in every kitchen. This versatile mixed berry sauce/compote can be used in dozens of ways. Plus, this recipe is refined sugar-free and contains just three base ingredients!
In a medium saucepan, add the berries and lemon juice and heat over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly and heat for 2-3 more minutes. Occasionally press the berries, so they release more of their juices (though there's no need to mash them fully).
Add the maple syrup (or sweetener of your choice) towards the end of the cooking time and stir well. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice/sweetener at any time.
Remove from the heat and either serve the fruit compote immediately or allow to cool and use later.
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Notes
TOP TIP: remember that the amount of sugar/lemon needed within the fruit compote recipe will depend on what berries you're using. As I've used a liquid sweetener for this, it's better to add less, to begin with, because you can add more at any time (even after it's cooled). The same goes for the lemon.
If you're using fresh fruits (rather than frozen), feel free to add a splash of water, orange juice, or other juice to help encourage the sauce to form.
To create a type of 'quick berry chia jam,' you could add a tablespoon or so of chia seeds to the compote as it cools.
Feel free to mash/blend the berry compote for a coulis-style thick berry sauce.
Feel free to make fruit compotes using individual or combinations of fruits, including; strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherries, blackberries, peaches, pears, rhubarb, etc. Different fruits will need slightly longer to break down.
Optional Fruit Compote Add-insThere are several ways to add extra flavor to your fruit compotes. Here are just a few options that work with several different types of fruit. The amount you use will vary, to taste.
Ginger - crushed works best, or a little bit of ginger paste
Basil/Mint leaves - Best added at the end, once the heat is off.
Cinnamon (leave a stick in the pot while heating, or use a little powder)
Pumpkin Spice/ Gingerbread Spice - for a Holiday twist
Rose Water - Pairs particularly well with red berries.