Chunky Apple Comfort, Three Ingredients

Some foods are simple on purpose. This applesauce is 3 ingredients, one pot, and most of the work is the apples softening on their own while you do something else.

Apples are a source of fiber, which supports the gut, and carry a little vitamin C along with it. Cooked down soft, the fruit turns gentle on a sensitive digestive system in a way raw fruit sometimes is not. Leave it plain, or warm it through with cinnamon, ginger, or clove.

Let it be more than fuel. The smell of apples cooking down on the stove is its own small pleasure. Stir it now and then, notice the steam, and let one easy thing in your day stay easy.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds apples, any variety (softer apples cook down faster; mixing varieties adds depth)
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice (for a citrus-free version, use apple cider vinegar in place of lemon juice)
• Optional to finish: cinnamon, ground ginger, or ground clove

Method

• Peel and core the apples, then cut each into eighths.
• Add the apples, water, and lemon juice to a saucepan over medium heat.
• Simmer 20 to 25 minutes, stirring now and then, until the apples break down into a soft, chunky sauce.
• Taste and warm it as you like with cinnamon, ginger, or clove. Serve warm, or cool and keep refrigerated.

*Adapted from a-squirrel-in-the-kitchen*

*Lower-sugar note: this is apples cooked down, so the sugar is the fruit itself. Use a smaller spoonful, or stir in water to soften the sweetness in each serving.*