6-8 medium-sized apples (use a variety like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala for a balanced flavor)
1/2 cup / 125ml water
1/4 cup / 50g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon / 5g ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon / 2g ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 teaspoon / 3ml lemon juice (optional, for a hint of tartness)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1.Prepare the Apples
Wash the apples thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or wax.
Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler. You can leave the peels on for a more rustic texture and added fiber, but peeling them results in a smoother applesauce.
Core and remove the seeds from the apples, then cut them into evenly-sized chunks. The smaller the pieces, the faster they will cook.
Add 1/2 cup of water to the pot. The water helps prevent the apples from sticking to the bottom and allows them to cook evenly.
3. Season the Apples
If you prefer sweetened applesauce, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to the pot. You can adjust the sugar amount to your taste.
Optional: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor. Adjust the spices according to your preference.
A splash of lemon juice (about 1/2 teaspoon) can be added for a slight tartness that balances the sweetness. This is optional but recommended.
4. Simmer the Mixture
Place the pot over medium-low heat and cover it with a lid.
Allow the apples to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples will soften and break down as they cook.
5. Mash or Blend
Once the apples are soft and can easily be mashed with a fork, remove the pot from heat.
Use a potato masher, immersion blender, or regular blender to blend the apples until you reach your desired consistency. For chunky applesauce, mash it lightly. For a smoother texture, blend it thoroughly.
6. Taste and Adjust
Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness and spices according to your preference. You can add more sugar, cinnamon, or nutmeg if needed.
7. Serve or Store
Homemade applesauce can be served warm or cold. It's delicious on its own, as a side dish, or as a topping for various dishes, such as pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt.
If you have leftovers, store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about a week. You can also freeze it for longer-term storage.
Enjoy your homemade applesauce! It's a versatile and delightful treat that can be enjoyed year-round.
