Plum compote

Right now, the stars of the show are juicy plums; perfect for transforming into a quick compote. Whether you spoon it over creamy yoghurt, swirl it into porridge, or serve it warm with ice cream, this recipe turns a handful of plums into a pot of deliciousness.

Ingredients

4-6 ripe plums

1 orange, lemon or lime

1/2 vanilla pod, seeds scraped (optional)

A pinch of ground cinnamon

4 whole cloves, or a pinch of ground cloves

3-4 tbsp sugar (Demerara is fab, but any will do)

Method

Roughly chop the plums. Pluck out the stones. Place in a warm saucepan with a squeeze of lemon or orange juice.

Add the spices and sugar or honey. Let it bubble up.

Mash the mixture with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Taste occasionally, adding more sweetness or spice as required.  Grate in a little orange or lemon zest. Simmer until thickened.

A good trick is to drag your spoon across the bottom of the pot. If the compote separates for a moment, long enough to make a line, it’s done.