Unsweetened Applesauce with Veggies Recipe
This unsweetened applesauce with veggies is a wholesome and naturally sweetened snack or side dish combining tart apples with nutritious carrots and beets. The blend of fresh produce, cinnamon, and minimal water creates a smooth, fiber-rich applesauce without added sugars, perfect for a healthy treat enjoyed warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fruits
- 6 to 8 apples (local variety, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp) – cored and roughly chopped
Vegetables
- 2 large carrots – peeled and chopped
- 2 medium beets – peeled and chopped
Others
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the produce: Core and roughly chop the apples into quarters, leaving the skin on for extra fiber or peeling if preferred. Peel and slice the carrots into 2-3 inch pieces. Peel and chop the beets into rough quarters. Optionally, use 8 apples and 1 less beet for a sweeter flavor.
- Cook the mixture: Place a large pot on the stovetop over high heat. Add the apples, carrots, beets, cinnamon, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the fruit and vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Blend to smooth: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender and blend each batch for about 1 minute until smooth.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the applesauce warm or cold. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Leave apple skins on for added fiber and nutrients, or peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by using more apples or fewer beets.
- Use an immersion blender for an easy one-pot method or a regular blender in batches if you don’t have one.
- This applesauce stores well refrigerated for several days and can be reheated.
- Great as a healthy snack, side dish, or baby food alternative.
