Baked Apples with Red Wine

Baked Apples with Red Wine Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Baked Apples with Red Wine is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich, complex flavors of red wine and spices. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of fruit and wine in their desserts. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that can be enjoyed on any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a more formal gathering. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract with the tanginess of the red wine creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the soft, baked apples.

History

The tradition of baking apples dates back centuries and spans across many cultures. The concept of cooking fruits in wine is also not new and has been a part of European cuisine for a long time. This particular recipe, Baked Apples with Red Wine, is a modern take on these age-old practices, combining them into a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. It reflects the evolution of culinary practices, where simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

8 cored apples
3 tsp cinnamon (optional)
cherry or strawberry jam
0.5 cup brown sugar
0.5 tsp mace or nutmeg
1 cup red wine
0.5 tsp vanilla extract
lemon zest (optional)

How to prepare

Grease a casserole or baking dish.
Place the apples in the greased dish.
Fill each apple with jam.
In a separate bowl, combine cinnamon (optional), sugar, and mace (or nutmeg). Stir in the wine and vanilla.
Pour the mixture over the apples.
Cover the dish and bake at 350° F for 1 hour.
After baking, refrigerate the dish for 2 to 4 hours before serving.
If desired, garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different types of jam, such as raspberry or apricot, for filling the apples. You can also experiment with various spices like clove or allspice in place of or in addition to cinnamon and nutmeg. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute red wine with grape juice or cranberry juice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, choose apples that are firm and have a good balance of sweetness and acidity, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Coring apples can be made easier by using a melon baller or a dedicated apple corer. When filling the apples with jam, don't overfill to prevent it from spilling out during baking. For a more intense wine flavor, you can reduce the wine on the stove with the sugar and spices before pouring it over the apples. This concentrates the flavors and adds depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked apples chilled or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or granola can add a pleasant crunch and contrast to the soft texture of the baked apples.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the apples slowly and covered allows them to soften and absorb the flavors of the wine and spices thoroughly. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can reduce the baking time by 10-15 minutes. For a caramelized top, uncover the apples during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brown sugar is not available, you can use white sugar or honey as alternatives. In place of red wine, port wine or a sweet dessert wine can be used for a different flavor profile. Vanilla extract can be substituted with almond extract for a subtle change in flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to meld and develop as the apples chill, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve each baked apple on a dessert plate with a drizzle of the cooking liquid. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sophistication. A cinnamon stick placed next to the apple can also add visual appeal and hint at the flavors within.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Apples with Red Wine pairs beautifully with a glass of the same wine used in the recipe or a complementary dessert wine. For a non-alcoholic option, a cup of spiced tea or a latte with cinnamon can complement the flavors of the dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Apples with Red Wine contains approximately 200-250 calories. This calculation assumes the use of moderate amounts of jam and sugar. Adjusting these ingredients can increase or decrease the caloric content.

Carbohydrates

This dish is primarily composed of natural sugars from the apples and added brown sugar. A single serving of Baked Apples with Red Wine contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount can vary depending on the size of the apples and the amount of sugar and jam used.

Fats

Baked Apples with Red Wine is a low-fat dessert option. The only fats present would be minimal and come from the natural content of the ingredients, making this dish an excellent choice for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

This dessert is not a significant source of protein, containing less than 1 gram per serving. If desired, serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt could increase the protein content and add a creamy texture that complements the baked apples.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Baking them preserves most of these nutrients. Additionally, the spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, add small amounts of minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, it's important to check the labels of the jam and wine used to ensure they do not contain any allergens or have been processed in facilities that handle allergens.

Summary

Baked Apples with Red Wine is a relatively healthy dessert option, low in fats and free from common allergens. It provides carbohydrates for energy, dietary fiber for digestion, and vitamins and minerals from the apples and spices. However, it is low in protein and can be high in sugars, depending on the amount of added sugar and jam.

Summary

Baked Apples with Red Wine is a versatile and delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the depth of red wine and spices. It's a dish that can be easily customized and is suitable for a variety of occasions. With its balance of flavors and relatively healthy profile, it's a dessert that can be enjoyed without guilt. Whether served as a comforting treat on a cold day or as an elegant finale to a dinner party, these baked apples are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Baked Apples with Red Wine. It was a crisp autumn day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a cozy dinner. As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon and apples greeted me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

My friend, Maria, was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of simmering red wine and sugar. She smiled and beckoned me over, inviting me to try a spoonful of the rich, fragrant sauce. As I tasted it, I was immediately transported back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would make a similar dish for special occasions.

I watched as Maria carefully hollowed out the apples, filling them with a mixture of nuts, raisins, and spices before pouring the wine sauce over the top. The apples were then baked until tender and fragrant, the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bite of the Baked Apples with Red Wine, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, and over the years, I have perfected it to suit my own tastes.

To make Baked Apples with Red Wine, you will need:

- 4 large apples, cored but not peeled

- 1 cup red wine

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

- 1/2 cup raisins

- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon cloves

- 1/4 teaspoon allspice

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small saucepan, combine the red wine and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, until it has reduced slightly and become slightly syrupy.

While the wine sauce is simmering, mix together the nuts, raisins, and spices in a small bowl. Carefully spoon this mixture into the hollowed-out apples, packing it in tightly.

Once the wine sauce is ready, pour it over the filled apples, making sure to drizzle some of the sauce over the tops as well. Place the apples in a baking dish and cover with foil.

Bake the apples for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the tops to brown slightly.

Serve the Baked Apples with Red Wine warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The combination of flavors is truly divine, and I hope that this recipe brings as much joy and nostalgia to your table as it has to mine.

As I sit here, enjoying a warm serving of Baked Apples with Red Wine, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and create memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years, and I look forward to passing them on to future generations.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a new recipe to try, remember that sometimes the best dishes are the ones that come from the heart. Happy cooking!