Skip to main content

Cranberry, Quince, and Pearl Onion Compote

3.8

(6)

Image may contain Plant Fruit Food Confectionery Sweets Animal Bird Cherry Glass and Bowl
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.

Read More
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.
Put that half-full tub to use with recipes that go beyond the Italian American classics.
Like Sri Lankan cashew curry and vegan stuffed shells.
Glossy, intensely chocolaty, and spiked with coffee and sour cream, this Bundt is the ultimate all-purpose dessert.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.