Apple Cranberry Compote

I love to eat with the seasons. (Except avocado- that I need year round!) When the weather gets cold, my mind immediately turns to warming foods, which is how I discovered compotes. A fruit compote is simply fruit stewed in water with sugar and spices. Very often I don’t even bother adding sugar but cranberries are VERY tart so for me I needed some coconut sugar. (Maple syrup and honey would also work). I love the apple and cranberry combination but feel free to use your favorite in season fruits (try my favorite - pears!!)

If you are wondering what to eat your compote with- some of my favorite ideas include: on toast with nut butter, dripping on top of a pancake stack, mixed in yogurt with granola and even plain, just warmed up! I hope you give it a try!

Apple Cranberry Compote

3-4 apples any variety

1 12oz bag of fresh cranberries

1 1/2- 2 cups water

2 tbsp chia seeds

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 tbsp coconut sugar (or more depending on preference. This is more tart than sweet)

1 cinnamon stick of a liberal sprinkling of ground cinnamon (A sprinkle of clove or a star anise is also delicious)

Mix apples, cranberries, sugar and water in a small pot over medium flame with spices. Once cranberries begin to pop, lower flame to a simmer and add in chia seeds, stirring well to make sure you don’t get any chia clump. Cook about 20 minutes until soft (or more if you prefer).