This delicious, caramelized spread originated in the Middle Ages as a method of storing apples without refrigeration. Arriving to colonial America, settlers gathered for an all-day affair of slow-cooking and stirring. The event is recollected as a romantic ritual, as the large wooden paddle required both a boy & girl to turn. Girls had their choice of partner, and that beau soon became known as her favorite … at least, for the long winter. Thankfully, we’ve modernized with a slow-cooker & immersion blender, and while at first glance the ingredient list looks quite similar to applesauce, a few differences metamorpihize the preserve into something richer, creamier and perfect slathered on toast, alongside your favorite cheese & cracker combination, or topping pancakes.
Please note, you will need a slow-cooker and immersion-blender for this recipe.
Coat your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Add apples, water and spices.
Cover and cook on low for 9 hours.
Blend cooked apples with an immersion-blender.
Remove the lid and cook on low for an additional hour, or until desired consistency.
Store in glass jars, covered, and refrigerated for up to one month.
Naturally low-carb & gluten-free
*I prefer either Fugi or Gala apples, keeping the variety on the sweeter side, as the preserve contains no additional sweetener