By Aziza Aslanova
Ah, the apple. It’s not just for keeping the doctor away! This versatile fruit, with its rich history and myriad of varieties, can be transformed into a plethora of delectable treats and engaging activities. So, whether you’ve taken a trip to a local Kansas City orchard or simply have a surplus from the store, let’s embark on a journey to uncover the delightful things you can do with apples!
1. Baked apple goodness
- Apple pie: The classic. Flaky crust enveloping tender, spiced apple filling. The scent alone is enough to make one swoon.
- Apple crisp: With a crumbly, buttery topping and juicy apple base, this dessert is heaven in a dish.
- Apple turnovers: Think of these as mini apple pies you can hold in your hand. Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
2. Cool apple refreshments
- Apple cider: Warm or cold, this drink encapsulates the essence of fall. Add a cinnamon stick for an extra flavor kick.
- Apple smoothies: Blend apples with some yogurt, honey, and a touch of cinnamon. Healthy and refreshing.
3. Savory apple dishes
- Apple salad: Toss diced apples into your favorite salad for a sweet, crunchy twist.
- Apple chutney: A blend of apples, vinegar, sugar, and spices. This makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats.
- Apple and brie grilled cheese: The creaminess of brie paired with the crisp sweetness of apple slices takes this sandwich to a gourmet level.
4. Apple crafts & activities
- Apple stamping: Cut an apple in half and use it as a stamp. It’s a fun activity for kids and can be used to create festive cards or decorations.
- Apple bird feeders: Hollow out an apple and fill it with birdseed. Hang it from a tree and watch the birds come flocking.
- Apple votive holders: Carve out a section of the apple and place a tealight inside. It’s a natural, aromatic candle holder.
5. Preserving the bounty
- Apple butter: Slow-cooked to perfection, apple butter is a concentrated spread that’s delightful on toast or muffins.
- Applesauce: Homemade applesauce, free from preservatives, is leagues above the store-bought variety. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly!
- Dried apples: Slice them thin, remove the core, and let them dry out in the oven or a dehydrator. Perfect for snacking or adding to granola.
6. Simply raw:
Don’t forget the simplest pleasure—eating a crisp apple right out of your hand. Sometimes, it’s the unadulterated form of this fruit that brings the most joy.
Tips:
- When choosing apples for cooking or baking, consider their texture and sweetness. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn are popular choices.
- Always wash your apples thoroughly, especially if consuming them raw.
In conclusion, apples are not just a fruit; they’re a celebration of flavors, textures, and endless possibilities. So, next time you find yourself with a basket full of these crimson delights, remember that the world of apple adventures is vast and waiting for you to dive in. And if you happen to be munching on an apple treat while discussing mortgage options with Fountain Mortgage, well, we’d call that a perfect pairing!
This weekly Sponsored Column is written by Fountain Mortgage. Located in Prairie Village, Fountain Mortgage is dedicated to educating, and thus empowering, clients to make the best financial decision possible for their situation.
Fountain Mortgage NMLS: 1138268
