Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce: A Delightful Spring Treat

Spring is the season of renewal, and what better way to celebrate the abundance of fresh produce than with a vibrant and flavorful applesauce? This Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce is a delightful twist on the classic, combining the tartness of rhubarb, the sweetness of strawberries, and the comforting familiarity of apples. The result is a beautiful pink-hued sauce that’s perfect for babies, toddlers, and adults alike. It’s naturally sweetened, easy to make, and incredibly versatile. Enjoy it warm or cold, as a side dish, a topping for yogurt or pancakes, or even as a healthy dessert.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Delicious and Flavorful:** The combination of strawberries, rhubarb, and apples creates a unique and perfectly balanced flavor profile. The tartness of the rhubarb is tempered by the sweetness of the strawberries and apples, resulting in a taste that is both refreshing and comforting.
* **Naturally Sweetened:** This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of the fruits, minimizing the need for added sugar. This makes it a healthier option compared to store-bought applesauce.
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a batch of homemade applesauce ready in no time. The recipe is straightforward and requires no special equipment.
* **Versatile:** This applesauce can be enjoyed in countless ways. Serve it as a side dish, use it as a topping for breakfast foods, or enjoy it as a light and healthy dessert.
* **Perfect for All Ages:** From babies starting solids to adults looking for a healthy snack, this applesauce is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The smooth texture makes it easy for babies to eat, while the delicious flavor appeals to everyone.
* **Great Way to Use Seasonal Produce:** This recipe is a fantastic way to use up seasonal strawberries and rhubarb, ensuring that you enjoy the best of what spring has to offer.
* **Beautiful Color:** The natural pink hue of the applesauce is visually appealing and adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Apples:** Use a variety of apples that are known for their sweetness and flavor, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady. A combination of different varieties can add complexity to the flavor.
* **Rhubarb:** Choose firm, bright pink stalks of rhubarb. Avoid any stalks that are limp or discolored.
* **Strawberries:** Fresh, ripe strawberries are essential for the best flavor. If using frozen strawberries, thaw them completely before adding them to the pot.
* **Water (or Apple Juice):** A small amount of liquid is needed to help the fruit cook down. Water works perfectly fine, but apple juice can add an extra layer of flavor.
* **Lemon Juice (Optional):** A squeeze of lemon juice can help brighten the flavors and prevent the apples from browning.
* **Cinnamon (Optional):** A pinch of cinnamon can add a warm and comforting flavor.

**Exact Measurements:**

* 4 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 4-5 medium apples)
* 2 cups chopped rhubarb (about 2-3 stalks)
* 1 cup hulled and halved strawberries
* 1/4 cup water (or apple juice)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Pot or Dutch Oven:** A heavy-bottomed pot will help prevent the applesauce from burning.
* **Wooden Spoon or Spatula:** For stirring the applesauce.
* **Potato Masher or Immersion Blender (Optional):** For achieving your desired consistency.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons
* **Knife and Cutting Board

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce:

**Step 1: Prepare the Fruit**

* Wash, peel, core, and chop the apples into small, even pieces. The smaller the pieces, the faster they will cook.
* Wash and chop the rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces. Remove any leaves, as they are poisonous.
* Hull and halve the strawberries.

**Step 2: Combine the Ingredients**

* In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, rhubarb, and strawberries.
* Add the water (or apple juice), lemon juice (if using), and cinnamon (if using).

**Step 3: Cook the Applesauce**

* Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
* Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples and rhubarb are soft and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**Step 4: Mash or Blend**

* Once the fruit is cooked through, remove the pot from the heat.
* If you prefer a chunky applesauce, use a potato masher to gently mash the mixture to your desired consistency.
* For a smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender, but be sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.

**Step 5: Cool and Serve**

* Let the applesauce cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or cold.
* Store the leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

## Tips for the Best Applesauce

* **Choose the Right Apples:** The type of apples you use will greatly affect the flavor of your applesauce. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite combination. Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady are all good choices.
* **Adjust the Sweetness:** If you prefer a sweeter applesauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar. However, taste the applesauce first, as the strawberries and apples may provide enough sweetness on their own.
* **Control the Tartness:** If you find the rhubarb too tart, you can add a bit more strawberries or apples to balance the flavor. You can also add a pinch of baking soda, which will help neutralize the acidity.
* **Customize the Spices:** Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom are all delicious additions.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking the applesauce can result in a mushy texture. Cook just until the fruit is soft and easily mashed.
* **Prevent Sticking:** Stir the applesauce occasionally while it’s cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. A heavy-bottomed pot will also help prevent sticking.
* **For Baby Food:** When making applesauce for babies, make sure to blend it to a very smooth consistency to avoid any choking hazards. You can also omit the cinnamon or other spices.
* **Freezing:** This applesauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

## Variations and Additions

* **Pear Applesauce:** Substitute some of the apples with pears for a slightly different flavor and texture.
* **Ginger Applesauce:** Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Cranberry Applesauce:** Add a cup of fresh or frozen cranberries for a festive twist.
* **Caramel Applesauce:** Drizzle a tablespoon of caramel sauce over the applesauce before serving for a decadent treat.
* **Maple Pecan Applesauce:** Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup and a handful of chopped pecans for a delicious fall-inspired variation.
* **Spiced Applesauce:** Add a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves for a cozy flavor.
* **Vanilla Applesauce:** Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooking for a subtle sweetness and aroma.

## Serving Suggestions

This Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways:

* **As a Side Dish:** Serve it alongside grilled pork, chicken, or fish.
* **As a Topping:** Use it as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
* **As a Snack:** Enjoy it as a healthy and satisfying snack on its own.
* **As a Dessert:** Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
* **In Baking:** Use it as a substitute for oil or applesauce in muffins, cakes, and quick breads.
* **For Babies:** Serve it as a first food for babies starting solids.
* **With Cheese:** Pair it with sharp cheddar or brie for a sweet and savory combination.
* **In Smoothies:** Add a spoonful to your favorite smoothie for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **As a Filling:** Use it as a filling for pies, tarts, or turnovers.

## Health Benefits

This Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

* **Apples:** Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
* **Rhubarb:** Rhubarb is a source of fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants. It also contains calcium and potassium.
* **Strawberries:** Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. They also contain folate and potassium.
* **Low in Added Sugar:** This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of the fruits, making it a healthier option than store-bought applesauce.
* **Good Source of Fiber:** Fiber is important for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
* **Rich in Antioxidants:** Antioxidants help protect your body against damage from free radicals.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store the leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freezer:** Allow the applesauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen fruit?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely before adding them to the pot. Frozen rhubarb may be used if fresh is not available, but the texture might be slightly different.

**Q: Can I use a different type of apple?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor combination. Some good choices include Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Pink Lady, and Golden Delicious.

**Q: Do I need to peel the apples?**
A: Peeling the apples is optional, but it will result in a smoother applesauce. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the peels on.

**Q: Can I add sugar?**
A: While this recipe is designed to be naturally sweetened, you can add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter applesauce. Taste the applesauce first to see if it needs any added sweetness.

**Q: Is this recipe suitable for babies?**
A: Yes, this recipe is suitable for babies starting solids. Just make sure to blend it to a very smooth consistency and omit the cinnamon or other spices.

**Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can make this applesauce in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the fruit is soft. Mash or blend to your desired consistency.

**Q: Can I can this applesauce?**
A: Yes, this applesauce can be canned using a water bath canner. Follow proper canning procedures to ensure that the applesauce is safely preserved.

**Q: What can I do with the leftover applesauce pulp after making juice or cider?**
A: Don’t throw it away! Add it to muffins, cakes or pancakes for added fiber and flavor. It also makes a great addition to compost piles.

## Conclusion

This Rosy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce is a delightful and healthy treat that’s perfect for any time of year. With its vibrant color, delicious flavor, and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the taste of spring in every spoonful! Enjoy!