Fall is apple time. September and October are prime apple season, Macs and Courtlands in September followed by later varieties like Jona Gold and Fuji in October. Granny Smith and other green apples are tart and crunchy, red and gold apples sweet and spicy. There are different varieties of apples in orchards all over New England. You get to experience many more flavors than from the Supermarket. Apple Festivals are a regular part of celebrating Fall. People share fun and recipes from Carmel Apples to Apple Pie to Baked Apples. 
I live very near an organic apple orchard. Bird of the Hand Farm in Sterling, MA. I love to buy local, where I can meet the farmer and look her in the eye. Convey that I value the gift of organic local food.
During apple season my husband can eat several each day. We go through many pounds. I buy first quality for munching, but bags of seconds for baked apples and apple sauce and apple butter to save a little money.
Why eat Apples?
- Apples are a great seasonal source for vitamin C, A and fiber.
- The pectin a soluble fiber in apples helps the body move out toxins.
- A relatively low glycemic index below 50.
- Apples also contain Malic Acid that also supports the bodies effective natural detoxification.
- In Ayurveda cooked apples are balancing for the dosha and convey sweet and sour tastes. Add a few spices for balance and you are ready to start the day.
I love to get up and sip hot water as the house warms up and comes alive with the aroma of apples and cinnamon. It is a perfect way to get some seasonal fruit in to start off the day. Here is my very simple recipe. Enjoy
Baked Apples for 2
Ingredients:
- 2 apples or 1 for each person
- Dried Cinnamon
- Dried Ginger
Instructions:
- Rinse and Core 1 large apple per person. Be sure to get all the core and the seed pods out. (Prep the night before to save time. Sprinkle with lemon to preserve the color. ) Throw them in the oven while you shower.
- Trim the top and bottom well to a flat spot, this is where fertilizer and pesticide is highest.
- Line a dish with baking paper if you have it. It is not necessary.
- Sprinkle apples with cinnamon and ginger or nutmeg.
- Cover with foil or paper to protect the skin. This keeps the skin from burning.
- Bake at 350 F for 30 minutes or until soft.
Ready to enjoy
