Did you know that Michigan is the third-largest producer of apples in the country? Fun facts! 🍎
Apples are high in fiber, vitamin C, and a variety of antioxidants. When shopping, select firm, shiny, smooth-skinned apples with intact stems free of bruises, decay, or shriveled skin. Apples should smell fresh and pleasant, not musty or rotten. Best kept at 30-35 degrees F, apples will do best in an unopened plastic bag or the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Apples release ethylene gas that can damage other fruits and vegetables, so it’s better to keep them in a space all by themselves. Fresh apples will also keep at room temperature for several days, but may lose crispness and flavor after a prolonged time. Use within three weeks. 🍏
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 medium apples
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 4 tsp lemon juice (optional, will help applesauce keep longer)
PROCESS:
- Peel and core apples and chop into small pieces.
- Add apples and cinnamon to a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of water.
- Cover and cook over medium heat until apples are tender–about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Once cooked, add lemon juice and stir to combine. Mash any remaining apple chunks with a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
