Description
This Easy Mint Apple Sauce is a fresh, homemade condiment combining tender simmered apples with bright mint and a hint of cinnamon. Perfectly balanced with lemon juice and adjustable sweetness, it’s a refreshing twist on classic apple sauce served chilled or as a complement to savory dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 4-6 medium fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces
Herbs & Flavorings
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, packed and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon (optional)
Sweeteners & Liquids
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar, adjust to sweetness preference
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash, peel, core, and chop the apples into small cubes. Rinse and finely chop the mint leaves to ensure freshness and easy blending into the sauce.
- Combine Initial Ingredients: In a large saucepan, add the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice all together. This liquid mixture will help cook the apples evenly.
- Simmer Apples: Place the saucepan over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Check Texture: After about 10 minutes, test the apples to confirm they are tender and can be easily mashed, indicating they are fully cooked and softened.
- Mash Apples: Remove the saucepan from heat and mash the apples to your preferred texture, whether chunky or smooth, to suit your taste.
- Add Flavorings: Return the saucepan to low heat and stir in the sugar and chopped mint leaves thoroughly to integrate the sweetness and fresh herb flavor.
- Simmer with Cinnamon: If desired, add a pinch of ground cinnamon and let the apple sauce simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the subtle spice.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it into sterilized jars using a ladle.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate to preserve freshness and flavor. The sauce is ready to enjoy once chilled.
Notes
- Adjust sugar quantity depending on the sweetness of your apples and personal taste preferences.
- Use fresh mint for the best flavor; dried mint will alter the taste significantly.
- This apple sauce can be served cold or at room temperature and pairs well with pork dishes, desserts, or simply on its own.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within one week for optimal freshness.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after mashing the apples.
