It's Applesauce Season!

Our current Washington Children's Choice nominated book is Applesauce Season , by Eden Ross Lipson.  We have been reading about and trying different types of apples.  The book includes a recipe for homemade applesauce that I've given to teachers, but in case your child can't find it, here it is again:

·         6 lbs. apples, three varieties or more

·         2 or more cups liquid – water, cider, or juice (or more as needed)

·         1/3 cup cinnamon sugar (or less or more as needed)

·         ½ tsp. butter

·         Dash of salt

Optional:  If you can find a quince, wash, cut and add it to the pot.  It will make the sauce pink and sweeter.

Wash and cut up apples and put in a heavy saucepan.  Add liquid and cover.  Cook at medium flame until completely soft and foamy – about 20 minutes. 

Remove from flame, uncover, and let cool briefly, but while still warm transfer the apple mixture to a food mill placed over a large bowl. Grind down thoroughly.  The sauce will be loose, even runny.  It will thicken as it cools.  Season to taste.  Serve warm or cold.