Growing up, apple sauce wasn't a common staple in my home because it's quite rare in South Africa. You might find it during the festive season, but it's usually very expensive.
A few years ago, I started making jams, marmalades, and chutneys, selling them at local markets. Many customers inquired if I also made apple sauce. In response, I searched for recipes and discovered an excellent one on the Pioneer Woman's website.
I've developed a passion for it, having experimented with apple sauce recipes for years. I adore apples and enjoy pairing apple sauce with ice cream.
Ideas, Advice and Suggestions
Apples peeled and cored – Any apples will work for this recipe; you can even use older apples from your fridge. Feel free to mix different types of apples since they will be pureed. The apples should be peeled, cored, and chopped before use.
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Apple cider between 250ml and 330ml –Apple cider is my preferred choice, but apple juice is a suitable substitute if desired. Be aware that using more liquid may require a longer cooking time for the apple sauce. It's important to note that while most apple ciders are gluten-free, some may contain gluten, so always check the ingredient label.
Lemon Juice – Freshly Squeezed or bottled.
Brown sugar - If you don't have brown sugar, the same amount of white sugar or maple syrup can be used as substitutes; however, brown sugar contributes a distinct flavor.
Cinnamon and spices – Experiment with different spices to discover your preferred flavors, but be cautious with the quantity of nutmeg you add.
Homemade Applesauce
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-50 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes - 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12-½ cup servings
Level of Difficulty: Easy
The Origin of the Recipe: thepioneerwoman.com
Diet: Gluten-free
A delightful and easy-to-make applesauce, perfect for a variety of uses. Adjusted to be gluten-free!
Ingredients
- 3kg apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 slices
- 330ml (1 bottle) apple cider (1 cup 250ml will also work)
- Juice of 1 lemon (50ml)
- ¾ cups (165g) brown sugar, packed
- ¼ tsp. cinnamon, more or less to taste
- Couple of shakes pinch Nutmeg
- Shake of mixed spice
- Optional ingredients: Nutmeg, maple syrup, allspice to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 25 minutes.
- Carefully puree in a food processor or blender (don't fill too full; split into two portions if needed) until smooth.
- Store in the fridge and serve by itself, over pork chops, over ice cream, over pancakes... or any place where applesauce is needed!