Apple, Dried Cherry and Walnut Compote (Ziplock Zip and Steam)

🍏🍒🌰🍽️🕒

Apple, Dried Cherry, and Walnut Compote is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples and dried cherries with the crunchiness of walnuts. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, as a side dish, or even as a dessert. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and time needed to prepare it:

History:
The history of compotes dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world. Compotes were originally a way to preserve fruits in sugar syrup, but over time, they evolved into a popular dessert or side dish. This specific recipe likely draws inspiration from traditional compote recipes, incorporating modern convenience with the use of Ziplock Zip and Steam bags.

Components:

• Apples: You’ll need fresh apples, preferably a sweet variety like Gala or Fuji.
• Dried Cherries: These add a chewy, sweet-tart element to the compote.
• Walnuts: Walnuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Sugar: Typically used to sweeten the compote.
• Cinnamon: To add warmth and depth of flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash, peel, and core the apples. Chop them into bite-sized pieces. Measure out the dried cherries and walnuts. You can adjust the quantities to your preference.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, dried cherries, and walnuts. Sprinkle sugar over the mixture, and add a pinch of cinnamon. Adjust the sugar and cinnamon to taste.

3. Seal in a Ziplock Zip and Steam Bag: Transfer the mixture to a Ziplock Zip and Steam bag. Seal the bag, leaving a small opening to allow steam to escape.

4. Steam in Microwave: Place the bag in the microwave and steam on high for about 3-5 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage and the desired level of softness for the apples. Check the compote periodically and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. Serve: Once the apples are tender and the cherries have softened, remove the bag from the microwave. Be careful when opening the bag, as it will release hot steam. Give the compote a gentle stir.

6. Enjoy: Serve the compote warm as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, ice cream, or as a side dish with pork or poultry. You can also refrigerate any leftovers for later use.

Time Needed to Prepare:
The total time needed to prepare Apple, Dried Cherry, and Walnut Compote is approximately 10-15 minutes, including the preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy dish that you can enjoy as a wholesome snack or part of a meal.

Bon appétit! 🍽️🍏🍒🌰🕒

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apple, Dried Cherry, and Walnut Compote:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Total Fat: 5-8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 0-5 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
  • Sugars: 20-25 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Vitamin C: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 1-2% DV
• Iron: 2-4% DV

Health Information:

1. Low in Saturated Fat: This compote is low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy.

2. Low in Cholesterol: There is no cholesterol in this dish, which is excellent for heart health.

3. Good Source of Dietary Fiber: The dietary fiber in apples and cherries can aid digestion and help maintain regular bowel movements.

4. Rich in Antioxidants: Apples and cherries contain antioxidants like vitamin C, which help combat free radicals and promote overall health.

5. Nuts for Healthy Fats: Walnuts provide healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.

6. Natural Sugars: While this compote contains sugars, they come from the natural sweetness of the fruit, which provides energy and nutrients.

7. Vitamins and Minerals: Apples are a good source of vitamin C, while walnuts provide small amounts of minerals like iron.

8. Customizable: You can adjust the amount of sugar used in the recipe to control the overall sugar content.

9. Balanced Snack: This compote can be a balanced snack when paired with yogurt or oatmeal, providing a mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a small amount of protein.

10. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, as excessive consumption of dried fruits and nuts can lead to high calorie intake.

Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the type and quantity of ingredients used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to consult a nutritionist or use a nutrition calculator for precise values, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or health concerns.