For me, crisp apples are synonymous with Fall. And as fun as it is to go apple picking with the kids, for me it's even more exciting to happen upon an orchard of gnarly old apple trees out in the middle of nowhere. There are tons of them around New England, sometimes at the edge of someone's property but often the abandoned trees are part of a state forest or preserve. When we come across old apple trees at this time of year, I love to collect an armful of fallen fruit. Though their skins may be tough and the ants or worms might have gotten there first, windfall apples can make great applesauce. This recipe is easy as pie and makes the house smell wonderful.
Windfall Applesauce
- Wash and peel apples, then chop them into roughly 1/2 inch pieces. If part of the apple is inedible for any reason, simply cut it away. As you do this, marvel at the intricate pattern left by a tiny insect or worm who obviously enjoys apples, too...
- Add apple pieces to a medium-sized saucepan in a roughly even layer
- Add enough apple juice to barely cover
- Add a couple cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon to taste
- Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1/2 hour or so
- Remove cinnamon sticks, wash and set aside
- Mash apples roughly with a potato masher or use a handheld blender or food processor if you prefer your applesauce smooth
- Add a bit of honey or agave to taste
