Dried apples are a fantastic pantry staple-packed with natural sweetness, chewy texture, and a concentrated apple flavor. But if you’re wondering how to cook dried apples to bring out their best, you’re in the right place! Whether you want to rehydrate them for pies, make a warm apple filling, or enjoy them as a snack, cooking dried apples is simple and rewarding. Let’s explore easy methods and tasty recipe ideas to make the most of dried apples in your kitchen.
What Are Dried Apples and Why Cook Them?
Dried apples are fresh apples that have been dehydrated to remove moisture, making them shelf-stable and perfect for snacking or cooking. When cooking dried apples, you usually rehydrate them by soaking or simmering in liquid, which softens them and releases their flavor. This process transforms dried apples into tender, juicy pieces ideal for baking, pies, sauces, or even fried apple treats.
How to Cook Dried Apples: Basic Rehydration Method
The simplest way to cook dried apples is to rehydrate them before using in recipes:
– Soak dried apples in hot juice or water: Heat apple juice, cider, or water to a boil and pour it over the dried apples. Let them soak for about 1 hour to plump up and soften.
– Simmer for tenderness: After soaking, cook the apples gently in the same liquid for 10 to 15 minutes until tender but not mushy.
This rehydrated apple mixture can then be used as a filling for pies, tarts, or hand pies.
Cooking Ideas Using Dried Apples
1. Dried Apple Pie Filling
A classic way to use cooked dried apples is for pie filling. After rehydrating and simmering the apples in cider or juice, mix in sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust, top with another crust, and bake at 400°F for about 50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
This method creates a rich, flavorful pie with a slightly chewy texture from the dried apples that’s unique and delicious.
2. Fried Apple Pies with Dried Apples
For a fun twist, dried apples can be cooked into a sweet filling for fried hand pies:
– Rehydrate dried apples by cooking them in water or juice until tender.
– Mash the cooked apples and sweeten with sugar and cinnamon.
– Roll out dough, cut into circles, fill with the apple mixture, fold, seal, and fry in oil until golden brown.
These fried apple pies are crispy on the outside with a warm, flavorful filling inside-a perfect comfort treat.
3. Homemade Applesauce from Dried Apples
You can also make applesauce by simmering dried apples in water until they break down. Add sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest to taste. Cook uncovered to reduce excess liquid until you reach your desired consistency. Chill before serving.
This applesauce is naturally sweet and a great way to use dried apples in a smooth, spreadable form.
4. Snack and Garnish Ideas
If you prefer to enjoy dried apples as a snack or garnish, you can bake or dehydrate fresh apple slices yourself:
– Slice apples thinly, soak briefly in lemon juice to prevent browning.
– Dry in a low oven (around 140-170°F) for several hours, flipping occasionally, until crisp.
These homemade dried apple chips are perfect for snacking, adding to yogurt, or garnishing desserts and cocktails.
Tips for Cooking with Dried Apples
– Use apple juice or cider for soaking: This adds extra flavor compared to plain water.
– Don’t overcook: Cook just until tender to avoid mushiness.
– Add spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice complement dried apples beautifully.
– Sweeten to taste: Dried apples concentrate natural sugars, so adjust added sugar accordingly.
– Store cooked apples properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a few days.
Summary
Cooking dried apples mainly involves rehydrating them by soaking and simmering in liquid, then using them in pies, fried pastries, applesauce, or as snacks. With a few simple steps, dried apples can transform into tender, flavorful dishes that bring cozy apple goodness to your table.
Enjoy experimenting with dried apples-they’re a versatile ingredient that’s easy to cook and delicious to eat!
Delicious dried apples are just a soak and simmer away from your next tasty apple creation.