Tasty And Delicious Recipes Using Green Apples…

By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef

INTRODUCTION

Green apples, scientifically known as Malus domestica, belong to the Rosaceae family and are a popular variety of apple known for their tart flavor and crisp texture. They are widely cultivated and enjoyed worldwide for their refreshing taste and numerous health benefits.

Green apples are typically smaller in size compared to other apple varieties and have a bright green skin, often with a slight red blush. Their flesh is firm, juicy, and white, and they contain small, dark seeds at the core.

These apples are renowned for their tartness, which comes from their higher acidity levels compared to other apple varieties. The tartness of green apples makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as beverages.

ORIGIN

The origin of green apples, specifically varieties such as Granny Smith, is traced back to Australia in the mid-19th century. The Granny Smith apple, one of the most famous green apple varieties, is believed to have been discovered in 1868 by Maria Ann Smith in Ryde, New South Wales, Australia, hence its name.

Maria Ann Smith found the seedling growing by a creek on her property, and it is thought to have originated from the remains of French crab apples that were discarded there. The apple’s characteristics — its bright green color, tart taste, and crisp texture — quickly made it popular.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GREEN APPLE

• Promotes Digestive Health: Green apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate digestion. Fiber aids in the movement of food through the digestive tract, reducing the risk of constipation and promoting bowel regularity.
• Aids in Weight Loss: The dietary fiber in green apples also contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake by minimizing snacking and overeating. This makes green apples a great snack for those looking to manage their weight.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Green apples contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C and flavonoids, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
• Supports Heart Health: The fiber in green apples can have a positive effect on heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol). A diet high in fiber can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Improves Bone Health: Green apples offer a range of minerals, including calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Regular consumption of green apples may contribute to improved bone density and strength.
• Boosts Immune Function: The vitamin C in green apples plays a crucial role in bolstering the immune system. Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are key to fighting infections and diseases.
• Maintains Healthy Skin: The antioxidant properties of vitamin C not only protect against cellular damage but also support the synthesis of collagen, a protein vital for skin elasticity and health. Consuming green apples can contribute to a healthier, more radiant complexion.
• Regulates Blood Sugar: Despite their sweetness, green apples have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they release sugar into the bloodstream slowly. This helps regulate blood sugar levels and makes them a suitable option for people with diabetes when consumed in moderation.

USES OF GREEN APPLE IN KITCHEN

• Baking: Green apples are a classic choice for pies, tarts, and crisps. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the dessert, and they hold their shape well under heat.
• Salads: Chop or slice green apples and add them to salads for a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. They pair well with leafy greens, nuts, and cheese.
• Smoothies and Juices: Blend green apples with other fruits and vegetables for a nutritious and refreshing drink. They add a lovely tartness to any smoothie or juice.
• Sauces and Chutneys: Cook down green apples with spices and sugar to make delicious sauces and chutneys. These can accompany savory dishes like pork, chicken, or cheese plates.
• Snacking: Simply slicing green apples and serving them with peanut butter or cheese makes for a healthy and satisfying snack.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Add thin slices of green apple to sandwiches or wraps for an unexpected crunch and flavor boost. They pair especially well with turkey, chicken, or brie cheese.
• Roasting: Incorporate chunks of green apple in roasted vegetable or meat dishes. The apples will caramelize and sweeten slightly, adding complexity to the flavor profile of the dish.
• Coleslaw: Add grated or thinly sliced green apples to coleslaw or similar slaws for a tart, crunchy element.
• Cider and Cocktails: Use green apples to make homemade apple cider, or muddle them in cocktails for a tart, fruity note.
• Preserving: Green apples can be canned, made into jams or preserves, or even pickled, extending their shelf life and allowing you to enjoy their flavor year-round.

RECIPE USING GREEN APPLE

1) Green Apple Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 green apples, sliced
• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and green apples. Cook until softened.
4. Add chicken broth and thyme, bringing to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook until the chicken is done.
6. Serve the chicken topped with the apple and onion mixture.

2) Green Apple Muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups green apple, diced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. Alternately add the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in the diced apples.
5. Fill muffin cups and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3) Green Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

• 4 green apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Ingredients:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place apple slices in a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add butter and rub into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the apples.
4. Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream.

4) Green Apple Juice

Ingredients:

• 3 green apples, cut into wedges
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup water
• Honey or sugar, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the apple wedges, lemon juice, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp.
3. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired. Serve chilled.
4. These recipes showcase the versatility of green apples in both savory and sweet dishes, allowing you to enjoy their crisp texture and tart flavor in a variety of ways.

5) Green Apple and Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 2 green apples, sliced
• 250 gms Chicken, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the green apples and stir-fry for a few minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the wok, season with salt and pepper, and cook until everything is heated through.
5. Serve hot with rice.

6) Green Apple Coleslaw

Ingredients:

• 2 green apples, julienned
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 carrot, julienned
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, green apple, and carrot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Chill before serving.

CONCLUSION

Green apples are not only a delicious and refreshing fruit but also a versatile ingredient that can enhance a wide variety of dishes, from breakfast oatmeal to savory stir-fries, and from refreshing salads to decadent desserts.

Their crisp texture and tart flavor make them a favorite among many, providing a balance to both sweet and savory creations. Beyond their culinary uses, green apples boast significant health benefits, including aiding in digestion, supporting weight management, improving heart health, and contributing to a stronger immune system. They are rich
in important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.