As winter approaches, faster in some places than in others, please remember that APPLESAUCE IS DELICIOUS!!!!! Especially when it’s made at home. If for some reason you feel worried about making it, or aren’t a cook in general, set you mind at ease. It’s quite simple. Really. And I’m going to give you step by step instructions – which makes it even easier!
First things first, buy apples. I really love using Fuji apples. They are delicious and often quite large. This is really the key to making good applesauce, in my humble opinion. Bad, sour, or not-your-favorite-kind of apples will make bad, sour, or not-your-favorite-kind of applesauce. For me, Fujis are the cat’s meow.
After getting the apples, peel, core, and chunk them. I usually do it in about 1/2 to 1 inch slices.
Next, put them all in a large pot and fill with water until it just barely covers the apples. About on the same level really, so that you can just push the apples with your hands and they will go under a bit.
Put in a spoonful of sugar, maybe around 1Tbs. (This is to help the apples break down, it’s not really a taste thing, so I usually put around the same amount of sugar no matter how many apples I use).
Put in a spoonful of honey. (This is ALL about the taste, so as the applesauce starts to cook down, taste it, and add more to preference).
Cook for FOREVER!!! No, really, it takes a while. Usually mine is done in about an hour and a half to two hours. I have the heat on medium-low to low. It makes the house smell lovely and my skin vibrant (from standing over the pot and stirring occasionally). Make sure you stir, at least once every 5 minutes or so. At some point you will panic thinking you have added too much water and it’s never going to be right again, but don’t fret, it will be fine.
When the apples have broken down to a state you appreciate (I like mine still kind of chunky), take some out and taste it! Add more honey, sprinkle some cinnamon, whatever your heart desires. My favorite it taking a vanilla bean, slicing it lengthwise and adding that it. Cook some more to let all these flavors meld.
Then, put it in a jar! Or a tupperware, or whatever you have at hand.
Voila! Applesauce. Eat it alone, or with ice cream, or with grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s all going to be great. If you have any questions, leave them in the comment box and I’ll do my best to answer them quickly. I’ve also added some instructional pictures to help you along. I didn’t give any measurements, because honestly, it’s not about the measurements – it’s about the ratios. I’ve never measured it – ever. You’ll be fine, and I promise, it’s fun <3
brindalee 