Strawberry Compote with Rose, Honey, and Mint

This is a strawberry compote inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean region.
Serve with creamy or frozen yogurt, vanilla ice cream or pancakes.
You can serve with various cheeses (cheese and fruit snack board).

Ingredients:

450 g fresh strawberries, washed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon edible rose water
2 ½ tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon chopped mint leaves
For decoration: fresh whole mint leaves and lemon zest (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 190 °C.
2. Prepare the strawberries: remove the tops and white part on top of the strawberries. Cut the strawberries in half and place in a large bowl. Stir in vanilla, rose water, honey, lemon zest and mint.
3. Spread strawberry mixture evenly over baking dish. Bake for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Carefully transfer baked strawberries to a large bowl. Mash with a fork until juices are released but some strawberry chunks are still visible.
5. Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with lemon zest and mint (optional).

Yield: 6 servings
Recipe: themediterraneandish.com