Although turnovers and crumbles will always remain fall classics, there are other delicious ways to cook with apples. As a dessert or main, for breakfast or dinner, make apples the star of the show this season. Here are three ways to integrate them into your weekly menu!
Apple butter
Not only is apple butter easy to make, it’ll add a ton of flavour to your morning toast! You can use a variety of apples to make this recipe, but avoid those that are more tart. Start by peeling, coring, and slicing a dozen apples. Next, place the apples and ¾ cup of brown sugar in a pot and cook for about 40 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Finally, transfer the mixture to your blender, add ½ cup softened butter and a pinch of cinnamon, and puree until smooth. Let cool in the fridge 4 hours before eating. Enjoy your apple butter on sliced bread, pancakes, French toast, or drizzled over plain Yogurt and granola.
Apple and cheese tart
There are many variations of this recipe out there, and the great thing is it can be adjusted according to what’s in your fridge. On a floured work surface, roll out ½ a package of puff pastry into a rectangle, then gently transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Fold over the edges and prick the dough using a fork. Slice three apples and layer them evenly atop your dough. Top with ¼ cup goat cheese and ¼ cup cheddar. Season with salt and pepper, place on the lower rack of the oven, and cook at 400° F for 20 minutes. Serve your tart at happy hour or as your main course, accompanied by a crisp green salad.
Ham and apple grilled-cheese sandwich
Grilled-cheese sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, and are so easy to reinvent depending on your craving. To elevate your grilled cheese game, we suggest opting for artisanal bread with raisins, nuts, or cranberries. If you want something a little more nutritious, go with whole-wheat bread. In a pan set over medium heat, place a slice of bread, butter side down. Top with a few slices of Gruyere, ham, and apples. Close your sandwich with another slice, butter side up, and cook covered two or three minutes, or until bottom slice is golden brown. Flip and repeat on the other side.
TIPS
With meat
So you made a delicious batch of applesauce but aren’t sure what to do with the leftovers? Meat pairs perfectly with the rich flavours of apple! For an incredible homemade BBQ sauce, simply combine your applesauce with ketchup, brown sugar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and spices, transfer to a pot and bring to a boil.
In a salad
Tired of plain old spinach or arugula salad? Add some panache to your greens by throwing in a few apple slices, dried fruit, and nuts! Apples also make a great addition to a creamy broccoli or celeriac salad.
Whether you buy them at the supermarket or pick them yourself directly from the orchard, apples can be enjoyed a million and one different ways. Head to the kitchen and start experimenting today!
