Dried herb compote is not an ordinary drink. This a concentrate of nutrients enclosed in an aqueous fruit decoction, which lose water during drying, but gain intense flavor and greater nutritional density. Thanks to this, just one glass can provide a large dose of values that we often miss on a daily basis.
The most important substances present in dried fruit compotes to:
- potassium – regulates blood pressure, reduces swelling, improves heart function. Dried plums, apricots and apples are among its best natural sources,
- magnesium – supports the nervous system, helps in muscle regeneration, relieves tension and increases resistance to stress,
- soluble and insoluble fiber – improves digestion, is responsible for proper intestinal peristalsis, removes toxins and protects against constipation,
- polyphenols and natural antioxidants – slow down cell aging, protect against inflammation and support intestinal microflora,
- natural fruit sugars – they provide energy without sudden glucose spikes, if we do not overdo it with additives.
It is not without reason that people who drink compote regularly notice that they have their stomach becomes lighter, their metabolism improves, their skin becomes smoother, and problems with drowsiness after meals disappear.
The belief that dried fruit compote is a holiday drink is primarily due to tradition. Meanwhile its properties are not seasonal. The body will benefit from it at any time of the year, especially when we eat few vegetables, have a sedentary lifestyle or struggle with digestive problems. This is because dried fruit compote:
- improves intestinal function – thanks to the fiber, the compote works like a natural whisk. Cleanses the digestive tract, reduces the risk of constipation, and at the same time helps keep healthy intestinal bacteria in good shape,
- she stabilizes blood sugar levels – dried fruit has natural sugars, but when accompanied by fiber, their absorption is easier than in sweetened drinks or juices. This is especially important for people who care about equal energy during the day,
- strengthens the heart and nervous system – potassium and magnesium are two ingredients that most Poles consume in insufficient amounts. Compote helps make up for these deficiencies without supplements,
- hydrates more effectively than tea – it is a caffeine-free drink, so it does not have a diuretic effect. It supports electrolyte balance and makes the body use water better.
Dried compote is natural and does not contain chemicals, when we prepare it ourselves, we have full control over the ingredients. By choosing good, ecological dried fruit, we give up preservatives, sugars and dyes, which are full of ready-made juices.
Seeing how much good an ordinary dried compote has to offer, it is worth considering doing it more often at home and drinking it regularly. In the multitude of fashionable cocktails, functional drinks and superfoods, we have missed one of the cheapest and healthiest ways to support the body every day.
To make the compote taste so good that we will eat it more than once a year, pay attention to a few details. The most important thing is selection of fruits and proportions, appropriately selected spices, and skillful extraction of their aroma.
Ingredients for approximately 2 liters:
- 200 g dried pears,
- 150 g dried plums,
- 100 g dried apples,
- 50-80 g of dried apricots,
- 1 stick of cinnamon or half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon,
- 4-6 cloves,
- a piece of organic orange peel (optional),
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey – added only after the drink has cooled down,
- water.
Preparation step by step
- Rinsing fruit – always rinse dried fruit in a strainer under running water. Thanks to this, you get rid of any pollen and preservative residues.
- Cooking – put the fruit in a pot, pour water over it so that it is completely covered. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Releasing the aroma – set the compote aside for about an hour. During this time, the fruit will transfer its flavor, color and nutritional value to the water.
- Spices – turn on the burner again, add cinnamon, cloves, orange peel. Cook on low power until the fruit softens but does not fall apart.
- Sweetening – add honey only after the drink has cooled slightly so that it retains its properties.
- Serving – drink the compote warm in winter and chilled in summer with ice cubes. Both versions taste delicious.
If you want a more intense aroma, prepare the compote in the evening and leave it in the fridge overnight. The next day it will be even richer in taste and smell.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl
