September in New Hampshire brings apples and more apples!
Are you ready for a fresh New Hampshire-grown apple? Apples are healthy for you. They are fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol free -- plus, apples are a great source of dietary fiber. Unpeeled apples provide the best nutrients, located just under the skin. Apples are a good source of potassium, folic acid, and vitamin C. A medium apple has only 81 calories and almost four grams of fiber.
Here are delicious ways to enjoy apples:
- Apple Chutney: Instead of cranberry sauce, make an apple and pear chutney for turkey sandwiches, pork chops or grilled chicken.
- Applesauce: Smooth or chunky, with or without raisins and cranberries. Spice it up and make it your own.
- Apple Tasting Bar: With all of the varieties of apples available, set up an apple tasting bar and try as many different varieties that you can find at your grocery store.
- Main Dishes: Many of your main dishes could benefit from a little apple flavoring. Try a delicious apple chicken stir fry to bring apples to your dinner plate!
- Bake ’em! Remove the cores, leaving a 1/2 inch of the bottom of the apples. Pour a small amount of brown sugar and butter into the hole. Place the apples in a baking pan, then add 3/4 cup of water to the pan. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- On the Go: Crunch into a delicious whole apple at snack time, mealtime or anytime at all.
- Peanut Butter: Slice and enjoy apples with a delicious fruity peanut butter dip. Add carrots and celery for more color and variety.
Each variety of New Hampshire apple has its own attributes. Which one to use for which purpose is largely a personal preference. Some are better for fresh eating, while some are great for baking. Check with your local orchard to see which varieties they recommend.
According to Yankee Magazine, New Englanders’ four favorite apples, out of more than 40 commonly available varieties, are:
McIntosh
The most popular apple variety in New England. Its tender, tart flesh makes it a good match for applesauce, cider, and eating anytime or any place.
Cortland
Sweeter than a Mac, its juicy flesh holds up to baking and is also slow to brown, making it a perfect choice for salads and other raw preparations.
Roxbury Russet
Possibly the oldest American apple cultivar, it has firm flesh and a good balance of sugar and acid. It is great for baking and a favorite among cider makers.
Baldwin
A terrific all-purpose apple, with crisp, juicy flesh and a slightly spicy flavor.
If you are looking for an apple orchards in your area, check this map of apple orchards from the NH Fruit Growers Association. Most pick your own apple orchards open in September.
Try this apple dessert using homemade applesauce. This recipe is from UNH Cooperative Extension Nutrition Connections.
Dutch Apple Yogurt Dessert
1/2 cup yogurt, nonfat
1/2 cup applesauce, unsweetened
1 Tbsp Raisins, seedless
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp nuts or crunchy whole grain cereal
Combine all ingredients, except for nuts or cereal. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. When ready to serve, top with nuts or cereal
Makes 2 servings. 100 calories per 1/2 cup serving
