With New Jersey’s first killing frost of Fall behind us, we are headed out of the harvest season, and into the holidays. Of course, almost all the apples are off the trees- we picked ours almost 2 months ago. And although we have all been eating at least an apple a day in this household (and, no-I haven’t been to the doctor!), we still have a few left at the bottom of the bag. In fact, they’re a bit past their prime: a little mealy, though still fragrant. Sure I could make a pie-but that’s too much trouble. Also, our oven died last week. So what do you do if you hate to see any food to go to waste, but you’re just too damn lazy to do anything about it?
Turn to your trusty friend, the microwave, of course! I can’t believe it took me this long to discover that I NEVER had to stand over a hot stove and stir and stir to make applesauce-or even break out the food processor. I’m talking here about really, really good applesauce. Check out the recipe I used below and give it a try. Some people say to add a few tablespoons of sugar to the mix, but if your apples are the wonderful, sweet and perfume-y, Jersey Fresh orchard kind (hint: an equal combo of Winesap and Fuji work really well together), it isn’t at all necessary. Enjoy!
Easy Microwave Applesauce
6-8 apples, peeled, cored and sliced
1 Tsp. of Cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg (optional)
1/4 cup apple juice or water
Toss all ingredients into a microwave safe bowl and cover with plastic wrap, leaving a small flap for steam to escape. Microwave on HIGH for about 10 minutes. Check the apples: if they are tender and soft, remove them from the microwave; if not, return them to the microwave for another 2 or 3 minutes. Mash and stir with a fork until the desired consistency is reached. Bring to room temperature and then refrigerate for up to two days.
