Easy Berry Compote

This simple berry compote is one of my favorite ways to enjoy berries beyond eating them fresh. Spoon it over yogurt parfaits, overnight oats, nice cream, warm oatmeal, or whole-grain pancakes for natural sweetness without refined sugar.

This easy compote is also freezer-friendly, so I like to portion it into small 4-ounce canning jars and freeze extras for up to 2 months.

Easy Berry Compote

Makes about 1½ cups

Ingredients:

• 1 pint fresh organic blueberries

• 6 ounces fresh organic raspberries

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup, optional (if needed for sweetness)

Method:

1. Add the berries, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt to a small saucepan over medium-high heat.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally.

3. Use a potato masher to gently mash the berries as they cook, leaving some pieces for texture.

4. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced slightly. The compote will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Taste and stir in maple syrup, if desired.

6. Remove from the heat and let cool completely.

7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 2 months.