Apple Sauce

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free

Apple Sauce

In my Health Coach sessions, we sometimes explore the importance of a gluten-free lifestyle, focusing not just on dietary restrictions but on the holistic interplay of food, body, and mind. It's crucial to understand that healing doesn’t stop at avoiding gluten; it's about creating a nurturing environment for our bodies to thrive, particularly when managing autoimmune conditions. Remember, this isn’t just a temporary fix; it’s a lifelong journey.

If you’re embracing a gluten-free way of life, it’s essential to incorporate a variety of anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. These power-packed foods are vital for ‘healing and sealing’ the gut, paving the way for optimal health. While there are numerous methods to achieve this, let’s kick off with a simple, healing recipe for apple sauce. This delicious treat is not only an easy addition to your diet but also a potent tool for gut healing. Just a tablespoon a day can work wonders for you and your body.

Ingredients:

4 medium-sized apples (any variety you like)

1/4 cup water

1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra flavour)

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on your taste)

Method:

Prep the Apples: Wash the apples (organic if possible). Core, and slice your apples into small chunks. The type of apple you choose will affect the sweetness and flavour—feel free to experiment!

* Remember, don’t peel the apples, as the goodness that we want is in the skin of the apple.

Cook the Apples: Combine the apple chunks and water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, covering the pot to help steam the apples. Cook at a simmer for approximately 10 - 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Top the pan up with water if you require it.

* You will notice the apple skin changes. The apple sauce is complete when the apple skin becomes shiny.

Add Flavour: Once the apples begin to soften (about 10-15 minutes), you can add cinnamon and honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Mash It Up: Stir the mixture well, and use a fork or potato masher to create a smooth consistency, or leave it chunky if that’s how you like it!

Cool and Store: Let it cool, and then transfer your apple sauce to a jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Enjoy this simple remedy daily, and feel the gentle healing it provides to your gut. Remember, every little effort counts on this journey towards holistic health!

Additional Notes:

Apple sauce is a versatile delight that can be spruced up in various ways to enhance its taste and appeal. Here are some playful ideas to make your apple sauce more interesting or to use it creatively:

Spice it up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for that warm, comforting flavour. For a bit of zing, consider a dash of ginger or allspice.

Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits like pears, peaches, or mangoes for a delightful twist. You can blend the fruits together to create a smooth, fruity medley.

Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a pleasant texture contrast and added nutrition.

Raisin Razzle: Throw in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy surprise that balances the smoothness of the sauce.

Herbal Essence: Add some fresh herbs, like mint or basil, for a refreshing herbal note that’s both unique and delightful.

Citrus Zing: Just a squeeze of lemon or orange juice can brighten the flavours and add a lovely citrus dimension.

Savory Sauces: Use apple sauce as a base for marinades or glazes for meats such as pork or chicken. It provides a sweet counterpoint to the savoury notes.

Breakfast Boost: Drizzle apple sauce over your morning oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles as a natural sweetener, or mix it into your yogurt for a fruity treat.

Baking Buddy: Use apple sauce in baking recipes as a substitute for sugar or oil to add moisture and sweetness to cakes, muffins, and breads.

DIY Popsicles: Freeze apple sauce in moulds to create refreshing fruit pops. You can add chunks of other fruits for visual appeal and extra flavour.

Playing with apple sauce not only enhances its taste but can also turn it into a star ingredient in various meals and snacks. Enjoy experimenting!

A tablespoon a day is great and will benefit your health.

Equipment Used:

Saucepan

Chopping board

Knife

Freezer containers.

Freezing Notes:

The apple sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months.