I recently ended up with lots of cooking apples, and I had to think creatively to use them up before they went bad. Cooking apples, like Bramley or Granny Smith, are particularly tart, which makes them perfect for baking, cooking, and even preserving. If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some fun ideas I came up with to enjoy these delicious fruits.
Baking Apple Delights
One of the first things I did was make an apple pie. The sweet and tangy filling combined with a flaky crust creates a classic dessert that everyone loves. I also experimented with making apple crumble, which is just as easy. You simply slice your cooking apples, sprinkle them with sugar and cinnamon, and cover them with a tasty mixture of oats and butter. It’s a quick, delicious treat that makes your kitchen smell incredible!
Step-by-Step Recipe for Apple Sauce
Making apple sauce is another fantastic option. Here’s how I did it:
- Peel, core, and chop your cooking apples into small chunks.
- Place the apple chunks in a pot and add a splash of water and sugar to taste.
- Heat the pot over medium heat and let it simmer.
- Stir occasionally until the apples break down and become soft.
- Mash the apples with a fork or use a blender for a smoother texture.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to spice things up, then let it cool.
Now you have homemade apple sauce that can be enjoyed on its own or used in various recipes!
Preserving the Bounty
If you want to save your cooking apples for later, making apple butter or canning them is a great choice. Apple butter is a thick, sweet spread that you can use on toast or pancakes. To make it, cook down your apples with sugar and spices until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. You can store it in jars and enjoy it throughout the year. Canning the apples is also a smart way to have them ready to use in pies or sauces later on. Just sterilize your jars, fill them with cooked apples, and follow proper canning guidelines.
Savory Dishes with Apples
Lastly, I discovered that cooking apples aren’t just for desserts! They can be added to savory dishes as well. I tossed some chopped apples into a stir-fry with veggies and chicken, and the result was a unique flavor combination. You can also add them to salads or serve them alongside roasted meats for a sweet contrast. The possibilities are endless when you think outside the box!
Once you get started, you’ll discover just how versatile cooking apples can be. I found that experimenting with these fruits has not only helped me reduce waste but has also added some exciting flavors to my meals. Whether you decide to bake, preserve, or create savory dishes, there are so many ways to use lots of cooking apples!
FAQ
Can I use cooking apples in raw recipes?
While cooking apples are best suited for baking and cooking, you can use them raw in salads if you balance their tartness with other ingredients, like sweeter fruits or dressings.How do I know when my cooking apples are ripe?
Cooking apples are usually firm and crisp. If they have a slightly soft texture, they’re likely ready to use, but overly soft apples may be past their prime.- What’s the best way to store cooking apples?
Store cooking apples in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They can also be kept in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness.