Dried Fruit Compote

Ingredients

4 pounds mixed dried fruit (Any combination of dried fruits is delicious. Try figs, apricots, cherries, cranberries, apples, or prunes.)
4 cups boiling water
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup cognac
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

Place the dried fruits in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let the fruit sit for about an hour, then drain. Place the fruit in a large pot with the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the fruit is tender but not falling apart. Add more sugar or orange juice to taste. Remove the cinnamon stick. Refrigerate the compote in its syrup overnight before serving.

Makes about 10 servings