Doug's Easy Applesauce Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed with its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Please note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 12 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 pinch salt (or to taste)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious apple cider compote:

1. In a large pot, combine the peeled and chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, apple cider, and salt. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
2. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer.
3. Let the mixture cook for about 20 minutes or until the apples become soft and tender. Stir occasionally.
4. Use a potato masher to mash the apples while they cook, helping to break them down into a smoother consistency.
5. Once the apples are softened and the desired texture is achieved, remove the pot from the heat. Serve warm or let it cool before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	160	8%
Total Fat	0g	1%
Saturated Fat	0g	1%
Sodium	8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	42g	15%
Dietary Fiber	5g	19%
Total Sugars	34g	-
Protein	1g	1%
Vitamin C	10mg	11%
Calcium	24mg	2%
Iron	0mg	2%
Potassium	237mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The values are based on the available data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Recipe by: Doug Matthews

Origin of Applesauce

Applesauce has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, with origins tracing back to the early European settlers in the Americas. The simple method of stewing apples with water or cider was perfected over time into the creamy condiment we know today. Historically, applesauce was used not only as a sweet treat but also as a way to preserve apples during harvest. By canning applesauce, families could enjoy the fruit throughout the year, long after the apples had been harvested. Dougs Easy Applesauce Recipe, a modern take on this classic, brings together apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cider for a deliciously simple dish.

Regional Variations

While applesauce is enjoyed worldwide, each region has developed its own variations. In the United States, especially in the Northeast, where apple orchards are abundant, applesauce often incorporates spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. In the UK, applesauce is commonly paired with roast pork, offering a savory-sweet balance. In contrast, European applesauce recipes tend to lean more on natural sweetness, sometimes with a touch of lemon juice for acidity. Dougs version stands out with the addition of apple cider, enhancing the depth of flavor and giving the sauce a unique, slightly tangy twist.

How Doug's Applesauce Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets Doug's Easy Applesauce apart from traditional applesauce recipes is the use of apple cider. This addition imparts a richness and complexity to the applesauce that you wont find in most other recipes. Additionally, Dougs recipe emphasizes a more textured, slightly chunky consistency, which provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth, often over-processed applesauces found in stores. Unlike many applesauce recipes, Dougs version skips the unnecessary additives and focuses on fresh ingredients, making it a healthier and more flavorful choice.

Where is Applesauce Typically Served?

Applesauce is a versatile dish that can be served in various contexts. In many American households, applesauce is a common side dish for meals like pork chops or roast turkey, offering a sweet counterpoint to savory meats. Its also popular as a topping for breakfast foods such as oatmeal or pancakes. In some cultures, applesauce is even used as a topping for desserts or incorporated into cakes and pies. Dougs Easy Applesauce, with its rich flavor profile, can be served warm as a comforting side dish or chilled as a refreshing snack or dessert.

Fun Facts About Applesauce

• In the early 20th century, applesauce was a popular ingredient in baby food, praised for its mild taste and smooth texture.
• The average American eats about 20 pounds of applesauce each year!
• Applesauce can be used as a substitute for oil or butter in baking, providing a healthier alternative while keeping the baked goods moist.
• In some parts of the world, like Germany, applesauce is commonly served with potato pancakes (known as "Reibekuchen").
• Applesauce was used as a preservation method during wartime, helping families maintain a food supply during rationing periods.

Conclusion

Doug's Easy Applesauce is not just a recipe, but a piece of culinary history. Its simplicity, paired with the modern twist of apple cider, creates a dish that is both comforting and innovative. Whether you're looking for a side dish to complement your meal or a delicious homemade snack, this applesauce recipe is a winner. The next time you're at the farmer's market, pick up some fresh apples and make this easy recipe to enjoy with friends and family!

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