Homemade Applesauce: A Game-Changer for Your Taste Buds
Tired of the overly sweetened, grainy mush that dominates supermarket shelves? Look no further! This homemade applesauce recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic, boasting a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Choosing the Right Apples
Selecting the right apples is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor. Opt for crisp varieties like Fuji, Winesap, Gala, or Granny Smith, which will provide a delightful texture and flavor. You’ll need about 3 pounds of apples, roughly 6 large ones.
Getting Started
Begin by coring and chopping the apples into 1/2-inch pieces, leaving the peel on for smooth applesauce or peeling for a chunky texture. Place the apple chunks in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan and add 2 cups of apple cider, juice, or water, along with a cinnamon stick if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
The Finishing Touches
Once the apples are extremely tender, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add a quarter cup of granulated sugar, a pinch of fine salt, and a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. For smooth applesauce, let the mixture cool to room temperature before passing it through a food mill fitted with a medium disk. For a chunky texture, simply beat the apples with a wooden spoon until you reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy Your Delicious Homemade Applesauce!
This recipe yields 8-10 servings and can be enjoyed on its own, paired with latkes, or served alongside braised pork. With a total prep time of just 1 hour and 10 minutes, you can easily whip up a batch for a quick snack or meal accompaniment. Give it a try and discover the difference that homemade makes!
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