Nothing beats homemade applesauce, especially when it’s crafted with love and the right kitchen tools. The secret to a smooth, flavorful applesauce lies in one simple device – the food mill. A food mill might seem like an old-fashioned gadget, but trust us, it’s worth its weight in gold when making applesauce. It transforms apples into silky smooth perfection, and the best part? It does all the work for you, allowing you to focus on perfecting that sweet, tangy flavor. Let’s dive into how to use this classic tool and why it’s a game-changer for making applesauce.
Food mills date back to the 18th century, when they were originally used in kitchens to create a variety of purées. Over time, they became essential for making applesauce, mashed potatoes, and other soft foods, due to their ability to separate skins and seeds from the flesh. In fact, the first food mills were hand-cranked, often made of wood or metal. Today, they’re mostly made of stainless steel and feature a hand crank or even a motorized option for convenience. But no matter the style, the basic function remains the same – to make cooking easier and more delicious.
If you’ve never used a food mill before, you’re in for a treat. A food mill works by pressing your cooked apples through a fine mesh, separating the skin, seeds, and other impurities, leaving you with a smooth and creamy applesauce base. It’s the difference between a chunky, uneven applesauce and a silky-smooth one, perfect for any occasion. You can even customize your applesauce to your liking – add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost. And let’s not forget, using a food mill means you’ll have less mess and no need for a blender, making cleanup a breeze.
Now, let’s talk about the recipe itself. Here’s a simple yet delightful applesauce food mill recipe that anyone can make in their own kitchen:
Simple Applesauce Food Mill Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4-6 medium apples (any variety you like)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into quarters.
- In a large saucepan, add the chopped apples and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
- Once the apples are soft, transfer them to your food mill. Set the food mill over a large bowl or pot, and begin turning the handle. You’ll notice that the applesauce will begin to flow through the holes, leaving behind any skins or seeds.
- If desired, stir in sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to taste. The beauty of making your own applesauce is the ability to customize it to your liking – so feel free to experiment!
- Once the applesauce is to your desired consistency, serve it warm or store it in jars for later use. Enjoy!
This recipe is simple, but the results are anything but ordinary. The texture of applesauce made with a food mill is unmatched – smooth, velvety, and perfect for serving with a side of Sweet Candy Company‘s favorite treats. You can even freeze it for the winter months when fresh apples aren’t in season. Imagine pairing this fresh applesauce with a bite of tangy cinnamon bears or a sweet chocolate stick. It’s an unbeatable combo!
Did You Know?
Food mills were originally invented to help separate skins and seeds from food in the 18th century, making them a staple in kitchens long before the advent of blenders or food processors.
Who Should Avoid This? Potential Drawbacks
While a food mill is incredibly useful, it may not be for everyone. If you’re someone who prefers chunky applesauce, or you don’t mind a little texture in your homemade sauce, then you might find a food mill a bit unnecessary. Additionally, food mills can be a little tricky to clean due to their mesh design. If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, the turning motion might also pose a challenge. For those with limited counter space, the bulky size of some food mills could be a concern.
But for most of us, the food mill is a welcome addition to our kitchen arsenal. It’s a tried-and-true tool that ensures perfect applesauce every time – and that’s something you just can’t put a price on. Whether you’re making a batch for your family or preparing jars for the holiday season, this simple tool makes the process effortless and enjoyable.