Homemade Applesauce

Applesauce makes a wonderful accompaniment to potato latkas, or is a simple, delicious dessert on its own. My Baba Masha always added a ripe pear. Her applesauce was the best!

Directions

1. Peel and core the apples and pear. Cut them into chunks. Combine all ingredients (except artificial sweetener, if using) in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer and cook partially covered for 20 to 25 minutes, until tender.

2. To microwave: Cook covered on high power for six to eight minutes, or until tender. Stir once or twice during cooking.

3. Break up applesauce with a spoon, or serve it chunky.

Notes: If using apple juice, use minimum amount of sugar or sweetener. If you want the apples to keep their shape, add sugar after cooking, not before. If using sweetener, add after cooking.