During the summer, it’s easy to get carried away at the store or farmers market. The riot of colors, flavors, and smells can sway you to stock up on more peak season bounty than you can possibly eat while it’s fresh. Another summer tradition is taking the time to preserve some of that bounty. Whether it’s canning tomatoes or drying herbs, there are plenty of ways to stretch the season and make those flavors last. Another benefit of the peak of the season is that produce is typically less expensive when it’s in season. You get the highest quality product at the best price—what’s not to love?
While stone fruit season runs throughout the summer months, August is National Peach Month. If you’ve got a glut of peaches, try making this peach-thyme compote. With just four ingredients and a bit of water, you can make an elevated spread that captures the essence of summer. Thyme adds complexity while the acidity of lemon juice tames the sweetness. You can switch different herbs and get creative. Since you’re not canning a jam, you don’t need to worry about straying from the recipe basics. Want to mix stone fruit or other seasonal goodies? If it grows together, it goes together!
Use the compote in sweet or savory applications. Grilled cheese sandwiches, as a glaze for roasted pork, with crepes, on a biscuit, or as an ice cream topper, this compote will complement your meals for the rest of the summer!
Peach-Thyme Compote
Makes 2 cups
Total Time: 30 minutes
Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Vegan
2 pounds ripe, firm peaches
¼ cup organic sugar
¼ cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 thyme sprig
- Bring a medium pot of water to a simmer. Drop in peaches for 15-30 seconds then remove from simmering water and place in cold water. Remove skins once cool enough to handle.
- Chop peaches, remove stones, and place in a medium saucepan.
- Add remaining ingredients and bring to a hard boil. Cook for 5-8 minutes or until peaches are cooked.
- Spread cooked peach mixture on a rimmed backing sheet for rapid cooling. Discard thyme sprig.
- Store cooled peach compote in a sealable container in the refrigerator until ready to use.