More apple talk.

If you've ever got just a couple of apples on hand - and not 10 lbs. like I mentioned a few posts ago! - and you'd like a quick side dish - here's a fast way to make applesauce. (I prefer crock pot applesauce, but this is still much, much better than the canned kind you can purchase in the store.)

2 large apples, peeled, cored and chopped
1/4 - 1/2 cup water, depending on how thick/thin you like your sauce
1/8 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine all the ingredients in a small sauce pan. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15 - 20 minutes, until apples are soft. Allow to cool and mash with a potato masher for chunky sauce, or pulse through the blender for a smoother sauce.

If your apples are already sweet - like Fuji, rather than tart, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar used.

I make this recipe when I'm roasting a chicken and vegetables, to be served as a side, if I've been able to find some apples at .88 cents a pound (or less). At that price, I can make this dish for around .25 cents a serving.