It is Apple Time!

It is apple season in many parts of the country. I know that in our area, the orchards are full of apples. We made our first visit to an area orchard a couple of weeks ago. I had a few apples left and didn't want them to go to waste, so I made applesauce. It is so easy to make and it doesn't take very long. It is also so much better tasting and better for you than anything you buy in a jar. The only ingredients you need are apples, water and a little bit of sugar and cinnamon if you like.



Ingredients:


8 apples (any variety)

1 cup water

1 T. sugar (optional)

1/2 tsp. cinnamon (optional)



Peel the apples and cut them into quarters. You can use a potato peeler, but I find it easier to cut them into quarters and cut out the seeds, and peel the apple section with a sharp knife.

When you get them all peeled and quartered, put them in a large saucepan with 1 cup of water. Cover the pan and bring them to a simmer, reduce heat. Let them simmer at a low heat until they are very tender when you test them with with a fork (about 45 minutes).

When they are very tender use a spatula (or a fork) and mash the apples into a chunky applesauce. If you like your applesauce more smooth, you can let the apples cool and put them in a food processor or blender. We like ours chunky. You now have sugar free applesauce. If you want to sweeten slightly, stir in 1 T. of sugar (or more if you like it sweet). I also add 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon to mine. Serve warm or cold.

*Mom hint-My mom stirs in a few Redhots Candy into her warm applesauce instead of sugar and cinnamon. They melt and give the sauce a pink color, and a sweet, cinnamon flavor.