Quince & Apple Compote
This naturally sweet Quince & Apple Compote is a delightful, fibrous topping for any meal, requiring no added sugar thanks to the perfect balance of fruit.
For 4 servings
Prepare the fruit: Peel, core, and grate the large quince. Immediately peel, core, and chop the apples into 1/2-inch pieces to prevent browning. Place both fruits into a medium saucepan.
Combine ingredients: Add the water, fresh lemon juice, ground nutmeg, and optional cinnamon stick to the saucepan with the prepared fruit.
Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it cook.
Cook until tender: Continue to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until both the quince and apples are very soft and easily mashed. The quince will take longer to soften than the apples.
Mash and finish: Remove the cinnamon stick (if used). Use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash the compote to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender briefly. If the compote is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water; if too thin, cook uncovered for a few more minutes.
Cool and serve: Allow the compote to cool slightly before serving. It will thicken further as it cools. Serve warm or chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing Quince: Look for firm, bright yellow quinces without blemishes. They are very hard and fibrous, so a sturdy grater or food processor with a grating attachment is recommended.
- 2Prevent Browning: Quince and apples oxidize quickly once cut. Have your lemon juice ready and toss the prepared fruit with it immediately, or place them directly into the cooking pot with the water.
- 3Adjusting Sweetness: While designed to be sugar-free, if your apples aren't very sweet or you prefer a sweeter compote, you can add a touch of maple syrup or a few drops of stevia to taste after cooking.
- 4Storage: Store leftover compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice Profile
Add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or a star anise during cooking for a different aromatic twist.
Fruit CombinationsFruit Combinations
Introduce other fruits like a firm pear, a handful of cranberries, or dried apricots (rehydrated) for added complexity and texture.
TextureTexture
For a chunky compote, chop the quince instead of grating it, and cook a bit longer until tender. For a completely smooth sauce, blend thoroughly with an immersion blender or in a regular blender once cooled.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Both quince and apples are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Quince contains powerful antioxidants like polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Immune Support
Apples provide Vitamin C, an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system, while quince also contributes to overall wellness with its vitamin and mineral content.
Frequently asked questions
While you can use any apple, sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious work best to ensure the compote is naturally sweet without added sugar. Tart apples might require a touch of sweetener.
