Stew Apples
Stewed apple is delicious and so simple to make. Served hot or cold, with a dollop of double cream or ice cream, made into a pie, cake or crumble its exquisite. I like to use Granny Smith or Bramley apples. If the kids are going to be involved, I tend to choose the Granny Smith variety as they are easier for the kids to peel, due to their shape.
When stewing apples, it's important to remove all of the core, seeds and peel. I vary the amount of water or sugar I add, depending on what I am going to do with the apple. Some recipes may require a drier apple for example.
When stewing apples, keep a close eye on them, dont be afraid to add more water, you dont want it to catch.
I tend to taste the apple before I begin. If the apple is tart I would add additional sugar, if the apple is too sweet I would add some lemon juice. I try to use as little sugar as possible, I like to let the apple shine.
Stewed Apple Ingredients
7-8 granny smith apples (small to medium)
1 tablespoon golden caster sugar
3/4 cup - 1 cup of water
Method
1. Wash and dry the apples. Twist the apple stalk to remove, then peel 1/2 your apples. Cut the apple into quarters, remove the core with a knife and slice the apples into 2-3 mm slices. This will help reduce the cooking time.
2. Pour the water into your casserole dish or frying pan. Once the apple is sliced immediately place the apple in the water to prevent it discoloring. Then repeat the process with the remaining apples. When you are 3/4's through cutting the apples turn the hot plate on to start heating your casserole dish.
3. Sprinkle the sliced apple with the tablespoon of golden caster sugar (you can also use honey should you wish). Place the lid on the casserole dish. Once you hear the pan starting to boil and steam reduce the heat to medium. Keep an eye on the pan, you do not wish the water to dry out or you will burn the apples, also do not add to much water or it will dilute the flavour of the apple. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon. The apples will be ready in 12-14 minutes, i keep the lid slightly ajar to stop the apple bubbling over. Please Note; use a tea towel or a protective glove when handling the lid and the handles to avoid any burns.
Top Tips
- Use a lid to cover the apples whilst stewing, this will help reduce the cooking time.
- If the apples are too sweet, you can add 1/2 a teaspoon of lemon juice to counteract the sweetness. If the apples are too tart, you can add additional sugar or honey.