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Cranberry, Quince, and Pearl Onion Compote

3.8

(6)

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Cranberry, Quince, and Pearl Onion CompoteJohn Kernick

In this chutney-like compote, quince lends a ripe-pear creaminess, and pearl onions a lush sweetness, to tart cranberries.

Cooks’ note:

Compote can be made 3 days ahead and chilled. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    1 1/2 hr

  • Yield

    Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

1/2 pound pearl onions (preferably red; 2 cups)
2 cups apple juice
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
6 cloves
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
2 quinces, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries (not thawed if frozen)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Trim root end of each onion and cut an X in it. Blanch in boiling water 1 minute, then drain in a colander. Cool slightly, then peel.

    Step 2

    Bring juice, sugar, vinegar, and spices to a boil in a 3-quart heavy saucepan, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Add onions and quinces and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender but not falling apart, about 30 minutes.

    Step 3

    Add cranberries and simmer until tender but not falling apart, 5 to 8 minutes. Discard cloves. Transfer fruit and onions to a bowl using a slotted spoon, then boil syrup, if necessary, until reduced to 1/2 cup. Pour syrup over compote and cool to room temperature.

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