In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix everything together, ensuring the strawberries are well-coated in the syrup.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture begins to warm, keep an eye on it. You'll notice the strawberries releasing their juices, creating a beautiful syrup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the mixture comes to a simmer, lower the heat slightly. Now, let it cook for about 15 to 18 minutes. You're looking for the strawberries to soften and the sauce to thicken. The colors will deepen, turning into a rich, glossy red.
After the cooking time, remove the saucepan from heat. It's essential to let the compote cool slightly; it will thicken even more as it cools down. You might want to taste it now and see if it needs a little more sweetness or a splash more of lemon juice.
Once cooled, transfer the Strawberry Compote to a clean jar or container. You can enjoy it right away or store it in the refrigerator for later!
