Side Dish: United States – Sunny Citrus Berry Compote

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 5 min

Cook 7 min

Additional 5 min

Total 17 min

Ingredients

2 cups (300 g) mixed berries (blueberries, sliced strawberries, raspberries; fresh or frozen)
1 / 2 cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tsp finely grated orange zest
1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
2 tbsp (30 ml) honey, plus more to taste
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 / 8 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Pinch of fine salt
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp (15 ml) water (optional, for thicker texture)
4–6 fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

Add berries, orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, honey, vanilla, cardamom (if using), and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan. Toss to combine.
Set over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and soften, 5–7 minutes.
For a thicker compote, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer 30–60 seconds more until glossy and lightly thickened.
Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon as desired.
Garnish with mint just before serving, if using. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside the French toast.