Pick up an apple and take a closer look. These jewels are plentiful in the fall, and their versatility shows in the kitchen as they are the perfect ingredient for a variety of dishes. Mary Emma Allen whets our appetites for enjoying this popular fruit.
Apples grown for centuries
Although apple picking season is over, the apple continues to be a popular
fruit throughout the winter. Somehow the fall and winter months have always
seemed to me a great time for apple cookery.
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A healing fruit
Apples of some variety have been grown since the beginning of mankind. Once
man began writing, he recorded tales and legends about this fruit. One of
the early beliefs, which is still considered true, is that the apple is good
for one's health King Solomon declared the apple a fruit of healing. Many
years later, the original version of the old saying, "An apple a day keeps
the doctor away," evolved.
Apple "magic" is a term long associated with this fruit which is cousin to the rose. For according to mythology, the apple was a powerful cure-all for ills, was used as a love symbol and potion, and was eaten by some maidens to ensure lovely complexions and rosy cheeks.
Today apples are considered a healthy food, possibly resulting in fewer colds, headaches, and tension if eaten regularly. Apples contain Vitamins A and C, which help maintain good health. They are believed to be natural relaxers and tranquilizers. Some consider the possibility that apples may help lower the cholesterol level in the body.
Prepared in many ways
Apple magic in the kitchen has been well-known for years and years when it
comes to stirring up tasty dishes from this tasty fruit. Nothing is more
appetizing than the aroma of apple dishes cooking when one comes in
from the brisk out-of-doors.
The apple can be used in such a variety of ways - main dishes, salads, garnishes, breads, pancakes, sandwiches, and desserts. It's one we all should include on our autumn and winter menus...and in our lunch boxes.
Try Grilled Apple Sandwiches for a change of pace
Mix 1 pkg. (8-oz) cream cheese with 2 tablespoons mayonnaise and beat until fluffy. (Low-fat cheese and mayo can be used.) Stir in 1 cup finely chopped tart apples and 6 slices crisply cooked bacon crumbled.
Spread between slices of white or wheat bread and brush both sides with melted butter or margarine. Grill until golden brown on both sides.
Links, information and more for you
About the author: Mary Emma Allen writes children's stories and authors books, in addition to newspaper and magazine columns, and writes for the e-zine, "The Oasis." She also teaches workshops for children and teachers who encourage children to write. Check out her "Teacher to Teacher" column and her Web site for more cooking information and recipes. "Country Kitchen" also appears in Online publications The Bridgton Blues. Copyright © 2000 Mary Emma Allen.
