Homemade Applesauce: A Refreshing Twist on the Classic

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right apples is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor. Look for crisp varieties such as:

• Fuji
• Winesap
• Gala
• Granny Smith

These apples will provide a delightful texture and flavor. You’ll need about 3 pounds of apples, roughly 6 large ones.

Getting Started

Begin by:

1. Coring and chopping the apples into 1/2-inch pieces, leaving the peel on for smooth applesauce or peeling for a chunky texture.
2. Placing the apple chunks in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
3. Adding 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
• 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
• 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!