Fall Cardamom Pear Compote

One of the things I struggle to fit into my diet is fruit. I’m more of a salty/savory person and don’t crave sweets often, so you’re more likely to find me snacking on salted nuts than chocolate. But when the pear tree in my back yard started dropping fruit, and I was wondering what to do with all these pears, I decided to try out making a compote! It turned out to be a wonderful addition to yogurt, chia pudding, and even ice cream for a treat!

Ingredients:

• 3 Pears, peeled and chopped

• 1/2c Orange Juice (fresh squeezed is best)

• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

• 1 tsp Cardamom

• Pinch of Salt

• 1 tsp Arrowroot Starch + 2 tsp Cold Water

  • Can substitute 2-3 Tbsp Corn Starch with additional water, but arrowroot goes a long way and creates a more syrupy consistency

Directions:

1. Mix chopped pears, orange juice, vanilla, cardamom, and salt in a small pot.

2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until pears are desired consistency (I did about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally). If too much liquid evaporates, add a little more orange juice or water.

3. Mix arrowroot starch or corn starch with cold water.

4. Drizzle starch water mixture into the pot and stir to thicken.

Makes about 4-6 servings (depending on how much you love it!). Serve over yogurt, chia pudding, oatmeal, or ice cream.

What food group is a challenge for you? What will you put this compote on? Send me a message at emily@thedishnutrition.com or let me know in the comments below!