SOUR CHERRY COMPOTE (for six)

1 cup dried sour cherries, preferably unsweetened (about 5 ounces)

½ cup kirsch

½ cup water

¼ cup cherry jam or preserves (about 7 ounces)

1 cinnamon stick, broken in half

a 3 inch strip orange zest

1. In a small saucepan simmer all ingredients, covered, 5 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let mixture stand, covered, 10 minutes. Remove cover and cool completely. Compote may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered. Let compote come to room temperature before serving.

from The Best of Gourmet, 1995