Homemade Applesauce

• 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.

2. Cook the Apples

• Place the apple chunks in a large saucepan or pot.
• 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.