Getting Saucy with Apples

it's basically what it sounds like - apples in the form of a sauce.  

think the great taste of apples, but without the crunch.  you may laugh and think that its for babies and old people, but if Snow White had made applesauce from the red apple instead, she might not have gotten poisoned so easily.  Plus, it does taste great and is a good way to use up left-over apples that are about to go bad.

photo from livingingtheiceage.co.uk

Nothing much to it, this one is as simple as it gets.  Applesauce is basically pureed boiled apple, and any other additions are simply for flavour.

What You Will Need
Apples (any variety will do) - 3 regular sized apples gives about one bowl of sauce
1 Lemon
(Optional) Sugar and salt to taste

Feelin' Mushy

• Peel and core the apples.  You can use a corer or just slice them into quarters with a knife and discard and core
• Place the apples into a pot add liquid.  Water will do, or use apple juice for more flavour. the idea is not to boil the apples but to steam them, so just add enough to cover the bottom of the pot.
• Squeeze in the lemon juice and add  up to half a tea spoon of salt.  the lemon juice slows down the oxidation of the apples and adds a different flavour, while the salt helps to break down the apples
• Bring to a boil.  After which, cook on low heat for 15-20 min, or until the apples are soft (like a baked potato)
•  Remove from pot and mash with a spoon or potato masher.  For a finer sauce, use a blender!
• Add sugar to serve.  Serve as a side with protein, or as a dessert with yoghurt  it makes a healthy snack on its own too!

I was lazy so i used a blender, but on low power, so that there were still some apple chunks for more texture.  Dont worry about cooking too much, just store the excess in a jar.  It keeps pretty well since you have already boiled it ;)

The Verdict

Simple, quick and tasty.  I was using up some old apples so i had excess to keep, and they came in handy later on when i was hungry at night and also made for an easy breakfast (with hashbrowns and pork chops)

Prep time:5 Minutes.  Cooking Time: 20 Minutes.  Price: $2.50 for 5 apples, $1.20 for a lemon