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How To Make Blueberry Compote Two Ways
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Blueberry compote is a versatile sauce that is made by simmering juicy blueberries with sweetener and a touch of flavoring. It’s a California dream come true in every spoonful, bursting with sunshine-kissed flavor and endless possibilities. Whether you’re craving a sweet blueberry compote for dessert or a savory topping for grilled proteins, we have a blueberry compote recipe for you. This will definitely be your new go-to sauce for the warmer months ahead!
Known for its abundant sunshine and diverse climates, California offers the perfect conditions for growing high-quality blueberries. In the Golden State, blueberries are nurtured under a careful balance of sunlight and cool temperatures, allowing them to develop their signature plumpness and sweet, tangy flavor.
A Day in The Life of a California Blueberry Farmer
Being a blueberry farmer in California is both rewarding and challenging. Farmers are deeply connected to the land and the cycles of nature. Early mornings, strategic planning for water usage, and constant care for the blueberry bushes are part of daily life. However, the real magic happens when the bushes burst into life, offering a bounty of berries ready for harvest. This close relationship with nature not only ensures a sustainable crop but also deepens the farmers’ commitment to bringing the best produce to your table.
Meet Spencer Steed of Fairfield Farms
Spencer Steed is a second-generation farmer at Fairfield Farms in the Pauma Valley, just outside of Temecula. His family bought their first farm in 1998 when Spencer was just 16. In 2004, they purchased 200 acres in the Pauma Valley to grow organic blueberries.
Click here to learn more about Fairfield Farms.
Meet Ed Seaman of Santa Barbara Blueberries
Ed Seaman wasn’t always a farmer. In fact, farming at Santa Barbara Blueberries is, in his own words, his “retirement”. When presented with the opportunity to take over his father-in-law’s property about 30 miles north of Santa Barbara, he decided to leave his career as an IT manager for a large biotech company and move out to the picturesque Restoration Oaks Ranch.
Click here to learn more about Santa Barbara Blueberries.
What is a Compote?
A compote is a simple, versatile dessert made from whole or pieces of fruit in sugar syrup. Whole fruits are cooked in liquid like water or wine with sugar and spices until they soften and meld into a rich, luscious sauce. Blueberry compote, with its vibrant color and deep flavors, shows just how simple it is to transform fresh fruit into something extraordinary.
Uses for our Savory Blueberry Compote
Experience the richness of our Savory Blueberry Compote, crafted with California blueberries, red wine vinegar, shallots, and thyme, all simmered in California Syrah. This lush topping is perfect over proteins or alongside cheeses, bringing a burst of Californian flavor to any dish in just 30 minutes.
- It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially pork and chicken, where its tart-sweet profile cuts through the richness of the meat.
- Another great use is as a condiment on a cheese platter. Try it alongside a sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a delightful contrast.
- It also works well as a unique addition to pan sauces for duck, adding a burst of berry brightness that enhances the deep, savory flavors of the game.
Uses for our Sweet Blueberry Compote
Don’t miss out on this irresistible Blueberry Compote, lovingly simmered with California Moscato, a hint of citrus zest, and a touch of honey. The blueberries release their full, juicy flavor as the syrup transforms into a perfect, thick drizzle. Serve it warm or chilled over your favorite desserts for a sweet, fruity twist. It’s absolutely divine over grilled pound cake, accompanied by creamy vanilla ice cream, and topped with a sprinkle of toasted pistachios. This delightful compote is a versatile treat, ideal for any season.
- It’s a natural topping for ice cream or cheesecake, providing a fruity counterpoint to creamy desserts.
- You can also spoon it over pancakes or waffles for a breakfast treat.
- Layer it in a parfait with yogurt and granola for a refreshing snack.
- For a simple yet elegant dessert, serve it with ice cream or spoon it over angel food cake, allowing the compote to be the superstar.
CAUGHT THE COOKING BUG? SHARE YOUR COMPOTE CREATIONS WITH US BY SNAPPING A PIC AND TAGGING IT #CAGROWN ON SOCIAL. HUNGRY FOR MORE? FOLLOW US ON PINTEREST FOR ENDLESS INSPIRATION THAT’LL MAKE YOUR TASTE BUDS SING.
Blueberry Compote Two Ways
Ingredients
For the sweet compote:
- 2 cups blueberries, washed and divided
- 1 cup California Moscato wine
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1 TBSP + 1 tsp honey
For the savory compote:
- 2 cups blueberries, washed and divided
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 5 sprigs thyme
- 1 cup California Syrah
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 TBSPS sugar
- ½ lemon zest
- pinch salt
Instructions
To make the sweet compote:
- Combine 1 ½ cups (190 grams) blueberries, California Moscato, orange zest, and orange juice in a medium sauce pot and cook on medium heat for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once the liquid has reduced about half and the liquid becomes syrupy, remove from heat and stir in remaining blueberries and honey.
To make the savory compote:
- Combine California Syrah, red wine vinegar, shallots, and thyme in a medium sauce pot, then cook on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the shallots to soften, and the liquid to reduce.
- Next add 1 ½ cups (190 grams) blueberries and reduce heat to medium. Then stir in sugar and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the compote has become thick and syrupy. The liquid should stick to the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat, stir in the zest of ½ lemon, the remaining blueberries, and season with a pinch of salt.
To serve the sweet compote:
- Serve warm or chilled over your favorite ice cream or dessert. We served ours with grilled pound cake, vanilla ice cream, and toasted pistachios.
To serve the savory compote:
- Serve warm over your favorite pork, chicken, or fish, or with cheeses. The possibilities are endless.
To store the compotes:
- Allow to cool, and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
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More Recipes You Should Make with California Blueberries Next!
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Blueberry Brie Walnut Toast
Fresh, bursting blueberries take center stage in this hearty and satisfying toast recipe by Becky Sue of Baking the Goods. Thick slabs of toasted sourdough are topped with brie and baked until the cheese is warm and gooey. A mini mountain of blueberries and toasted walnuts crown the bubbly brie. Then, it’s all drizzled with a kiss of sweet honey and herby thyme tendrils for a fancy finish. Click here to make this recipe.
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These Mini Tarts from A Girl Defloured are not just ordinary gluten-free desserts; they are small wonders packed with bursts of juicy California blueberry goodness. Picture a luscious blueberry + lavender curd, perfectly nestled within a toasty, crunchy all-nut crust. Click here to make this recipe.
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Try this recipe for super-simple Individual Blueberry Crisps from G Free Foodie, and we promise you’ll be hooked. They are so easy and full of bright, delicious flavor; they’re one of our go-to desserts virtually year-round. Click here to make this recipe.
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