Applesauce

So good. So easy. So perfect.

There are some aromas that come from the kitchen that permeate a house and bring comfort to the soul. Roasted chicken, mulled wine and applesauce are among my favorites. When I was growing up, my mom made applesauce every fall when apples were found everywhere in New York state. I’ve kept the tradition alive and I honestly have no idea why I don’t make it all year long! I guess only making it during the fall is what makes it special.

Homemade apple sauce couldn’t be easier to make, and there isn’t a person, of any age, who won’t be scraping the bottom of the jar.

All you need to do is find some fresh, crisp apples, peel, core and toss them in a heavy bottomed pot. Add about a quarter cup of water, a pinch of cinnamon, and pinch of sugar. Then walk away and let the smell of simmering apples fill your home.

Occasionally, give it a stir. Add more water if needed just to keep it from burning. As it breaks down, you can smash with a potato masher to help it along. That’s it. Its done. Taste for seasoning.

If you prefer a smooth apple sauce, you can puree it with an immersion blender. If you like it chunky, just stop cooking it when reaches your desired level of chunkiness. It’s all about your preference.

Homemade applesauce is one of those simple, culinary joys in life, that I am most grateful for. Thanks Mom!

The Recipe

Applesauce

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Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups apples (peeled, cored and chopped)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/8-1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional if you prefer enhanced sweetness)

Instructions

 

• In a heavy bottomed pot (or whatever saucepan you have) combine apples, water and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium, to  medium-high, heat.  Reduce heat, and simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. 
• If the sauce is starting to stick, add a 1/4 cup of water as needed. 
• Once apples have broken down, you can help them along with a potato masher, if desired. If you are seeking a smooth consistency, use an immersion blender. 
• Taste for seasoning and adjust. Different apple types have different sugar content so if more sweetness is needed, stir in some sugar and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes on low. (Sugar is rarely needed but it is a preference.)