Apples are ready for harvest by fall. Biting into the juicy, crunchy apple is a satisfying snack. It is also a healthy snack while boosting fiber and vitamins. Apples are sweet and have high sugar content. Still, the natural sugar in an apple can help regulate blood sugar levels and energy, making them a great snack food for any time of day! In addition, apples are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, reducing risk factors associated with cancer. Apples are healthy and delicious – eat up!
Benefits of Apple
Because apples contain both insoluble and soluble fiber that aids in digestion, micronutrients such potassium that is helpful for heart health, and vital vitamin C that builds immunity. Apple is also rich in phytochemicals (quercetin, catechin, chlorogenic acid, anthocyanin) that provide numerous health benefits.
Quercetin is a naturally occurring plant chemical, a flavonoid, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pectin, a type of soluble fiber, may help prevent constipation and lower LDL, the “bad” cholesterol. Pectin also benefits the bacteria in the colon, which produce fatty acids that may play a role in preventing chronic diseases, including certain cancers and bowel disorders. Research has shown that the specific phytochemicals in apples may help to prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, weight management, and cancer.
Types of Apples
There are more than 100 varieties of apples available in the United States. Many of them are heirloom varieties and may be available only at Farmer’s Market. Apples have a range of tastes- they range from sweet to tart. Each type has a different bite, from a hearty crunch to a light crispy edge. Cooking apples will last longer than eating them raw. It also helps to preserve the nutrients longer.
- Apple varieties that are tart, mildly sweet with a firm, crisp flesh that does not become mushy are suitable for baking: Jonagolds, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Melrose, Cortland, Braeburn.
- Apple varieties that are juicy and sweet, tender to bite is suitable for eating: Gala, Red and Golden Delicious, Fuji, McIntosh.
Apple and Pesticide Residue
A vast majority of the healthy phytochemicals in apple is stored in the apple skin. Unfortunately, apple skin also keeps the highest amount of pesticide residue. Eating organically grown apples is one way always to eat healthily. You can wash the apples in running water without using soap, detergent, or even commercial chemical washes. For a more thorough washing, you can soak apples in baking soda dissolved (1 teaspoon) in water (2 cups) for 10-15 minutes. Wipe the apples thoroughly and store them in the refrigerator.
Sattvic Apple Recipes
Apple is a suitable fruit for a variety of sattvic recipes. With fresh apples, you can make an apple salad and sandwich. You can also bake a classic apple pie, reduce, or skip the sugar. Make apple chutney, instant pickle, and cooked pickle recipe.
Cucumber Apple Salad:
This cucumber apple salad recipe is perfect for recipes throughout the year. It combines the refreshing flavors of cucumbers and apples, giving it ‘the best taste. The best part about this recipe? You can prep it in just minutes! With no cooking required, you’ll be able to enjoy your delicious dish right away. So go ahead and try it today – let us know what you think!
Click here for the Cucumber Apple Salad Recipe.
Sattvic Apple Thokku:
This traditional dish is a delicious and healthy recipe that slowly cooks with few ingredients in about 45 minutes! Apple Thokku is a perfect side dish recipe for eating with rice, bread, or steamed veggies. The best part about this apple thokku recipe is the simplicity of the process, which makes it an easy way to get more fresh produce into your diet. Plus, since apples are in season now, you’ll be able to find them at most grocery stores. Use tart baking apples such as granny smith or Braeburn!
Click here for the Sattvic Apple Thokku Recipe.
Sattvic Apple Chutney:
Apple chutney is a quick and easy recipe that you can whip up in the kitchen. The spices and the apple give the recipe its characteristic sweet, sour, and spicy taste. The best part about this dish is that it’s vegan too! It tastes excellent with samosas or vegetarian pakoras, on top of curries for a little extra spice or eaten as a snack on its own. You can also add it to stir-frys or use it as a dipping sauce for dumplings. So give the recipe below a try today!
Click here for Sattvic Apple Chutney Recipe.
Instant Apple Pickle:
Apple pickle is a recipe for vegan apple pickles that is tangy and spicy. They’re perfect for eating cooling foods such as yogurt, plain rice, roti, or sandwich. You can assemble this recipe in less than 20 minutes and keep it on the counter for about a week. After that, keep refrigerated for longer life. This recipe is suitable for food lovers who want to try something new!
Click here for Instant Apple Pickle Recipe.
Apple Pie:
It’s finally apple season, and you may be excited to see all the beautiful red apples in the grocery store. But making an apple pie from scratch does not have to be time-consuming! This recipe for vegan apple pie is super simple. This recipe will show you how to make an apple pie without eggs or dairy. It’s easy and delicious! A perfect dessert for any occasion.
Click here for Apple Pie Recipe.
Health Benefits of Apple
