FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES
This rustic applesauce just loves a duck—a woodsy, outdoor-cooked duck in particular. Try it on grilled or smoked pork chops, too.
Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce is a delightful and versatile condiment that embodies the comforting flavors of fall. This homemade applesauce recipe elevates the humble apple into a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.
Using a combination of different apple varieties adds complexity to the flavor and texture of the applesauce. The apples are peeled, cored, and chopped before being simmered with apple cider or juice, brown sugar, fresh lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. The result is a chunky applesauce that strikes a balance between sweetness and tartness, with warm undertones of cinnamon.
The natural sugars from the apples and the addition of brown sugar contribute to the sweetness of the sauce, while the lemon juice provides a touch of acidity that brightens up the flavors. The ground cinnamon not only infuses the applesauce with its signature warmth but also complements the apple’s natural taste.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roast meats like chicken, pork, or turkey, adding a touch of sweetness and spice to balance the savory flavors. It can also be enjoyed as a topping for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or yogurt, adding a burst of autumnal flavor to breakfast dishes.
Making your own applesauce allows you to control the level of sweetness and spiciness according to your taste preferences. You can adjust the amount of brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create a balance that suits your palate. This applesauce is also a great way to use up excess apples during the apple harvest season, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient and delicious option for snacks or quick meals.
Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various dishes, Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce brings a touch of comfort and nostalgia to any meal. Its combination of fresh ingredients and warm spices captures the essence of fall and adds a delightful twist to classic dishes.
MAKES: ABOUT 4 CUPS
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 pounds apples, preferably a couple of varieties, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup apple cider or juice
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, or more to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or more to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Place all of the ingredients, using the minimum amounts of brown sugar and cinnamon given, in a large saucepan.
- Cook the apples over medium heat, giving them a few stirs to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the apples are very tender but still chunky, about 25 minutes. Cook uncovered for a few more minutes if lots of runny liquid remains.
- Taste the applesauce and add more brown sugar and cinnamon if you wish.
- Serve warm or at room temperature on the side at the table. Leftovers will keep in a covered container in the refrigerator for at least a week.
VARIATION:
- Make hard applesauce by replacing the unfermented cider with one of the many hard ciders now on the market. Pour in the whole 12-ounce bottle and cook the mixture a few minutes longer than the recipe states. Add ½ teaspoon ground allspice to the mix if you wish.
