Kompot Wigilijny

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the dried plums and dried figs under cold water. Slice the figs in half if large. Core and slice the apple and pear into wedges about 1 cm thick so they soften evenly without falling apart. Peel 2 to 3 wide strips of zest from the lemon, avoiding too much white pith, then squeeze out 15 ml juice.

2. 2

   Put the water, dried plums, dried figs, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and lemon zest into a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then immediately lower to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes so the dried fruit plumps and the spices perfume the liquid without turning bitter.

3. 3

   Add the apple, pear, and sugar. Simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the fresh fruit is tender but still holds its shape. Taste the broth; it should be lightly sweet and warmly spiced.

4. 4

   Turn off the heat and stir in the reserved lemon juice. Let the compote rest for 5 minutes so the flavors meld. Remove the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and lemon zest strips if you prefer a clearer drink.

5. 5

   Serve warm in cups or small bowls with some fruit in each portion and enough liquid to drink. For a more traditional holiday style, cool completely and serve chilled after the flavors deepen.

Nutrition per serving

Notes

• •For a darker, richer kompot, let it stand 15 to 20 minutes before serving if you have extra time.
• •If your dried fruit is very sweet, reduce the sugar to 15 to 20 g.
• •A small piece of orange peel can be added, but lemon keeps the flavor brighter and cleaner.
• •This drink keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the spice flavor becomes stronger over time.

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