Apple

• Making homemade apple pie filling: Apples are a classic ingredient for homemade apple pie, where their sweet and tart flavor intensifies when baked, creating a comforting and flavorful filling. Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile and add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Creating refreshing apple cider: Pressed apples create a sweet and slightly tart juice, known as apple cider. You can enjoy it fresh, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, or fermented into hard cider.
• Adding to fall salads for a crisp crunch: Diced or sliced apples add a crisp and refreshing element to fall salads, pairing well with ingredients like walnuts, cranberries, and goat cheese. Their sweetness complements savory flavors and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Braising with pork or chicken for a sweet and savory dish: Apples pair exceptionally well with pork and chicken, adding a touch of sweetness and moisture during braising. The apples soften and caramelize, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the meat.
• Making applesauce as a healthy side dish or snack: Cooked and pureed apples create a simple and healthy applesauce, perfect as a side dish, a snack for kids, or an ingredient in baking recipes. Control the sweetness by adding little to no sugar.
• Baking into muffins and cakes for added moisture and flavor: Incorporating diced or shredded apples into muffins and cakes adds moisture, sweetness, and a subtle apple flavor, resulting in a tender and flavorful baked good.

• Rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• High in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation.
• May help with weight management due to their low calorie and high fiber content, increasing satiety.
• Contains vitamin C, boosting the immune system and protecting against infections.
• Supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
• May improve gut health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

Apples are best stored in a cool, dark, and humid environment. For short-term storage (up to a week), keep them at room temperature away from direct sunlight. For longer storage (1-2 months), refrigerate them in a crisper drawer. To prevent browning after cutting, toss apple slices with lemon juice or a fruit preservative. Do not store near strong-smelling foods like onions, as apples can absorb odors.