Apple + Bay Leaves Compote: A Magic Mix

This straightforward but unexpected dish creates a distinctive flavor combination by fusing the sweet taste of apples with the aromatic scent of bay leaves. You can eat it as a dessert, as a garnish for porridge or yogurt, or even with savory foods like roasted meats.

Components:

1. Four midsize apples, any kind of tasty apple
2. Two to three bay leaves
3. One tablespoon of lemon juice
4. Two teaspoons of maple syrup or honey (optional)
5. Half a teaspoon of optional cinnamon
6. Half a cup of water
7. A dash of salt

Directions:

Get the apples ready:

• Cut the apples into little pieces after peeling and coreing them.

Make the compote:

• Add the chopped apples, water, lemon juice, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan.
• Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer:

• After covering the saucepan, boil the apples for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring now and then, until they are tender and starting to break down.

Season and sweeten:

• Take out the bay leaves and throw them away. For sweetness, add honey or maple syrup, and if you’d like, top with cinnamon.

Mash or blend:

• You can use a hand blender to puree the compote for a smooth texture, or you can leave it chunky for texture.

After cooling, serve:

• Before serving, allow the compote to cool somewhat. Savor it warm or cold, as a garnish or as a side dish.

Unexpected Outcome:

• The apples’ sweetness is enhanced by the faint herbal note that the bay leaves add, giving the dish an unexpected and pleasant depth of flavor!