Cardamom Spiced Applesauce
Ingredients ~
2-1/2 to 3 pounds apples (about 6 medium - a combo of McIntosh & Granny Smith)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch of salt
Preparation ~
Peel and core the apples and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place them in a 3 quart saucepan, add the lemon juice and toss to coat. Mix in the water and sugar and bring to a simmer, uncovered, over medium-high heat until the apples begin to break down and give off liquid, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the cinnamon, cardamom, butter, vanilla and a pinch of salt. Cover and continue cooking for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the apples have broken down completely and the sauce is thick. Remove from the heat and allow to cool before serving.
