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Today I noticed I had several apples that needed to be eaten…soon. I’d already purchased a new bag of red skinned apples. What could I do with these three that appeared a bit past their prime?
I have a wonderful fresh applesauce recipe. However, with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees and fresh snow on the ground, something warm and fragrant appealed to me more.
I came up with a simple solution…healthy fried apples.
An Apple a Day
We know how beneficial apples are. They play a crucial role in fighting inflammation of all kinds, calming the systems of the body by reducing viral and bacterial loads that inflame the body. In addition, the phytochemicals in apples feed the neurons of the brain and increase electrical activity. That makes them brain food!
Red skinned apples are especially beneficial. The pigments that create that rosy color have anti-obesity properties and strengthen the digestive system. They are the best colon cleanser. Pectin from an apple rids the intestinal tract of bacteria, viruses, yeast and mold. It also helps to eliminate debris that clogs pockets in the intestines.
And yet, we often turn to an unhealthy treat when hungry for a snack. Or we drizzle apples with caramel, pop them into pies or turn them into a side loaded with butter and sugar. Think about those restaurant style fried apples. We may think a side of fried apples is a healthier choice, but it isn’t.
This easy recipe does not contain refined sugar or butter. It’s vegan and gluten free. And it makes an excellent side dish, stand alone meal or simple dessert.
Recipe for Healthy Fried Apples
Healthy Fried Apples
Ingredients
- 4 red skinned apples, cored and diced
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- In a large non stick skillet, add diced apples and water. Stir over medium heat for 1 minute. Cover and cook apples for 4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are softened and water absorbed.
- Add coconut oil to skillet. Continue to cook and stir apples for 5 minutes.
- Add maple syrup, cinnamon and vanilla, combining with apples to coat. Cook and stir 3 to 5 minutes, until apples are cooked through completely. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings as a side or 2 servings for main course or dessert.
Tips for Healthy Fried Apples
Here are a few tips for creating your own apple side.
Add a bit more water, if needed, while cooking. With medium heat I had no problem with apples sticking to the pan.
Check apples every minute while they are cooking, covered. Stir and cover again.
Omit coconut oil, if desired. Add more water instead, as needed. Or add a tablespoon of plant based butter.
Feel free to add a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Top healthy fried apples with walnuts or raisins, if serving as dessert.
I enjoyed these wonderful fried apples so much that they became my lunch today. And they truly were perfect for a cold, overcast day. The mouth watering aroma as they cooked warmed me before I even took my first bite!
Plus, as I prepared this dish, another recipe idea came to mind featuring fried apples. I’ll let you know how it turns out!
Learn more about the benefits of apples and other foods in Anthony William’s book below. Click photo to purchase on Amazon.
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