Double-Mint Fruit Compote

• 2 cups water
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 2 bunches fresh mint, stems trimmed
• 2 to 3 drops pure peppermint extract
• 1 1-pint basket strawberries, hulled, halved
• 2 bananas, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 kiwis, peeled, each cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cantaloupe, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Fresh mint sprigs

1. Bring water, sugar, vanilla bean and 2 bunches mint to boil in heavy medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Cook until reduced to 3/4 cup, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes.
3. Strain into small bowl.
4. Add extract.
5. Cool.
6. (Can be prepared 2 days ahead.
7. Cover and chill.)
8. Combine fruits in medium bowl.
9. Pour over enough syrup to coat well.
10. Let stand 15 minutes.
11. Garnish with mint.

water, sugar, vanilla bean, fresh mint, peppermint, basket strawberries, bananas, kiwis, cantaloupe, mint sprigs

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/double-mint-fruit-compote-218 (may not work)