Mimi's Applesauce
Mimi's Applesauce Recipe: A Delicious Twist with Cranberry Sauce
Introduction
Mimi's Applesauce is a classic recipe that is perfect for any occasion. This delicious and easy-to-make applesauce is a great side dish or snack that the whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and comforting dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
History
Mimi's Applesauce has been a beloved recipe in our family for generations. This recipe has been passed down from grandmother to mother to daughter, and it has always been a staple at family gatherings and holiday meals. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a hint of cranberry sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 6 large apples, peeled and cored
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 can whole cranberry sauce (optional)
How to prepare
Stove top
- Slice the apples into a heavy saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Add 3 tbsp of water and cook, covered, over medium-high heat until the apples are soft and mushy.
- Stir frequently to ensure that the apples don't stick to the bottom of the pan and scorch.
- If the apples seem dry and are not releasing a lot of juice while cooking, add more water.
- Once the apples are done, remove from heat and mash them with a potato masher for a chunky sauce. Alternatively, use a hand-held immersion blender for a smoother sauce.
- Add sugar and spices to the sauce and return to heat.
- Cook uncovered on simmer until the sugar is dissolved.
Microwave
- Slice the apples into a microwave-safe cooking dish (not plastic).
- Add 3 tbsp of water and microwave on high, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and mushy.
- If the apples seem dry and are not releasing a lot of juice while cooking, add more water.
- Once the apples are done, remove from the microwave and mash them with a potato masher for a chunky sauce. Alternatively, use a hand-held immersion blender for a smoother sauce.
- Add sugar and spices to the sauce and return to the microwave.
- Cook covered on high for 1 or 2 more minutes, or until the sugar is dissolved.
Variations
- For a spicier applesauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For a sweeter applesauce, increase the amount of sugar or add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- For a more savory applesauce, add a pinch of salt or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
- For a chunkier applesauce, leave the cooked apples slightly larger and do not mash them completely.
Notes
- If using cranberry sauce, add with the sugar.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use a variety of apples for the best flavor. Mixing sweet and tart apples will give your applesauce a more complex and delicious taste.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices. Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, but you can also try adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more unique flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother applesauce, use a hand-held immersion blender to puree the cooked apples until they reach your desired consistency.
- For a fun twist, try adding a can of whole cranberry sauce to the applesauce for a tart and sweet flavor combination.
Serving Suggestions
Mimi's Applesauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it warm as a side dish with roast pork or chicken, or enjoy it cold as a snack or dessert. You can also use it as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream for a delicious and nutritious treat.
Cooking Techniques
Mimi's Applesauce can be cooked on the stove top or in the microwave, depending on your preference and time constraints. Both methods will result in a delicious and flavorful dish, so choose the one that works best for you. Cooking the apples until they are soft and mushy is key to creating a smooth and creamy applesauce that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have white granulated sugar, you can use brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup as a sweetener.
- If you don't have whole cranberry sauce, you can omit it from the recipe or substitute it with a different fruit sauce, such as raspberry or cherry.
- If you prefer a sweeter applesauce, you can add more sugar or sweetener to taste. Conversely, if you prefer a less sweet applesauce, you can reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.
Make Ahead Tips
Mimi's Applesauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Simply transfer the cooked applesauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can also freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months, thawing it in the refrigerator before serving.
Presentation Ideas
For a beautiful presentation, serve Mimi's Applesauce in individual ramekins or small bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also top the applesauce with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve the applesauce alongside your favorite main dish or dessert for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Mimi's Applesauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roast pork, grilled chicken, or baked ham. The sweet and tangy flavor of the applesauce complements the savory flavors of these dishes, creating a delicious and well-rounded meal. You can also pair the applesauce with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a healthy and balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To store Mimi's Applesauce, transfer the cooked applesauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months, thawing it in the refrigerator before serving. To reheat the applesauce, simply microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, or heat it on the stove top until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Mimi's Applesauce contains approximately 120 calories. This low-calorie dish is a great option for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. The natural sweetness of the apples and cranberry sauce provides plenty of flavor without the need for added sugars or fats.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Mimi's Applesauce contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the natural sugars found in the apples and cranberry sauce. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Fats
Mimi's Applesauce is a low-fat dish, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving. The lack of added fats in this recipe makes it a healthy and guilt-free option for those looking to watch their fat intake. The natural sweetness of the apples and cranberry sauce provides plenty of flavor without the need for added fats.
Proteins
There is minimal protein in Mimi's Applesauce, with less than 1 gram per serving. While protein is an essential nutrient for building and repairing tissues in the body, this recipe is primarily focused on providing a delicious and nutritious side dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Vitamins and minerals
Mimi's Applesauce is a great source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the natural ingredients used in the recipe. Apples are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while cranberry sauce adds a boost of vitamin E and vitamin K. These nutrients are essential for overall health and can help support a strong immune system and healthy digestion.
Alergens
Mimi's Applesauce is a gluten-free and dairy-free recipe, making it a safe option for those with food allergies or sensitivities. However, it is important to note that this recipe does contain sugar, which may be a concern for those with diabetes or other health conditions that require monitoring sugar intake.
Summary
Overall, Mimi's Applesauce is a nutritious and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a good balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a sweet and satisfying treat without the guilt. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a snack, this applesauce is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Summary
Mimi's Applesauce is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a good balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a sweet and satisfying treat without the guilt. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a snack, this applesauce is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and the scent of apples filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend Mimi, who was known for her delicious homemade applesauce. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples simmering on the stove.
Mimi welcomed me with a big hug and a knowing smile. "I have a special treat for you today," she said, leading me into the cozy kitchen. I could see that she had already peeled and chopped a large pile of apples, ready to be cooked down into a sweet and tangy applesauce.
As we worked together in the kitchen, Mimi shared stories of how she had learned to make applesauce from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She told me about the perfect balance of sweet and tart apples, the secret ingredient of a hint of lemon juice, and the importance of cooking the apples low and slow to allow the flavors to meld together.
I watched intently as Mimi added a sprinkle of cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg to the pot, stirring gently as the apples softened and released their juices. The kitchen was filled with the comforting smells of fall, and I knew that this recipe was one that I had to learn for myself.
After a couple of hours of simmering, the applesauce was ready. Mimi ladled it into jars, sealing them tightly with lids before placing them in a water bath to preserve them for the winter months ahead. She handed me a jar to take home, along with a handwritten recipe card that she had carefully written out for me.
I thanked Mimi profusely for sharing her recipe with me, promising to cherish it and pass it down to my own grandchildren someday. As I drove home with the jar of applesauce sitting on the passenger seat beside me, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the friendship and the connection that had brought me this special recipe.
Over the years, I have made Mimi's Applesauce countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, always passing on the tradition of homemade applesauce and the memories of that special day with Mimi.
Every time I make a fresh batch of Mimi's Applesauce, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen filled with the scent of cinnamon and apples, and I am reminded of the love and friendship that went into creating this recipe. It is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, of the joy that can be found in a jar of homemade applesauce shared with loved ones.
So whenever I peel and chop a pile of apples, sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon, and stir gently as the apples simmer on the stove, I think of Mimi and the day that she shared her special recipe with me. And I am filled with gratitude for the gift of her friendship, and for the timeless tradition of homemade applesauce that will always hold a special place in my heart.