Stewed Apples with Molasses
This kind of meal used preserved ingredients (salt pork, dried beans, cornmeal, molasses), which were staples on American farms before refrigeration. Families cooked over open
hearths or woodstoves, and meals were hearty to fuel physical labor. Seasonal produce like apples was stored in cellars for winter use.
The Ingredients
- 4 apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp molasses (or maple syrup or honey)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (if available)
- Water
The Process
- Place apples, molasses, cinnamon, and 1/2 cup water in a pot.
- Simmer over low heat until apples are soft and syrupy—about 20–30 min.
To Serve:
- Serve the salt pork and beans hot, with a slice of cornbread on the side.
- End with warm stewed apples—a comforting, rustic dessert.