I love apples…well, cooked apples, that is. I should like fresh apples more, but the truth is, that I’m very picky about fresh apples. I’d rather eat them sliced. However, I don’t mind the peel. And it cannot be gritty in the least bit. I’m not picky about most foods, but for some reason, I’m very particular about apples.
This love for apples started when we lived in the northeast. Jeremy worked for an apple orchard one fall driving the truck for apple pickers. He would bring home LOTS of apples. I think the last day he brought home 50 lbs! So began my applesauce making, dessert freezing frenzy. But more than the luxury of having my share of apples, I loved the whole fall season of apple picking. It was a friends and family sort of event. One year a bunch of us went apple picking and then came back and baked apple pies together. It was just plain fun and the perfect way to usher in my favorite season.
Since leaving the northeast, I haven’t had the adventure of apple picking at my fingertips, but I do still love fall and the sight of apple somethings all over my kitchen. I think that fall, apples, and cinnamon are about the most perfect smell / flavor combination you can get.
I don’t usually post recipes during the week, but in honor of fall approaching, I am highlighting my favorite apple recipes with the exception of my favorite apple pie recipe. I can’t believe I haven’t posted that here! Unfortunately it’s packed away in S. Africa but it involves apples, sugar, cinnamon, and cream! How can that not be good! On to the recipes…I love a good apple butter, and the benefit of making your own is your house fills with the lovely smell. Applesauce is always on hand, not only because my kids love it, but also because I use it a lot in place of oil. And I love apple dumplings (another one I can’t believe I haven’t posted yet…it will come soon). Apple turnovers in the freezer are a must in case we have unexpected guests. I recently tried out a few new things on this recipe. Here goes…
Apples
2 apples, cut into chunks
1/4 cup agave
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Combine apples, agave, water, and lemon juice in saucepan. Cook until apples are tender over medium heat. In separate bowl, combine flour and salt. Add to tender apples and cook until mixture thickens. Take off burner and add butter and vanilla. Allow to sit for 15-20 min.
I also tried a whole wheat pie crust. I think it will need some revisions, but if you’re looking to omit all white flour, it’s a good option.
1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup butter
3 to 4 tablespoons cold water
Combine flour and salt. Cut in butter. Add water and mix until dough forms a ball. I usually just use my hands for this. Roll out dough into a circle. Cut into fourths. Spoon apple mixture onto dough. Fold over to make a triangle and seal with fork. Bake in a preheated 350F oven for about 25 min. or until crust is lightly browned.
So tell me…what is your favorite season? In this ode to apples I would also love to hear your favorite apple recipes!
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