How to Store Your Apple Harvest
As autumn arrives, many people find themselves with an abundance of apples. To make the most of your harvest and enjoy apples throughout the year, there are several preservation methods you can use, including drying, pickling, freezing, and dehydrating.
Stephanie Hafferty, an organic gardener and award-winning writer from Ceredigion, Wales, shares her tips on preserving apples. With Apple Days being celebrated across the country during autumn, Hafferty highlights the versatility of apples and the abundance of these fruits available at this time of year.
One method she suggests is making apple cider vinegar by filling a jar with apple scraps and water, then allowing it to ferment over a few months. The resulting vinegar can be used in various preserves and even as a base for a sweet fruit drink during winter.
For a snack option, Hafferty recommends dehydrating apple slices to create chewy or crispy apple crisps. These dehydrated apples are not only great for snacking but can also be a delightful addition to dishes like Christmas fruitcake.
Another idea is to make apple leather by cooking apples into sauce and then dehydrating it to create a chewy, fruit-flavoured snack. This apple leather can be stored in jars for later enjoyment.
Chutneys and jellies are also great ways to preserve apples. Hafferty suggests using tried and tested recipes to ensure your preserves last for up to a year. Additionally, freezing apple sauce in small batches can provide a convenient topping for pork dishes.
To store raw apples through winter, Hafferty recommends wrapping them individually in newspaper and storing them in a cool, dark place. Regularly check the apples for any signs of spoilage and remove any that are starting to turn.
Before starting the preservation process, ensure your jars are sterilised by washing them thoroughly in hot, soapy water and then rinsing them in boiling water. Sterilise the lids as well by placing them in a jug of boiling water.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your apple harvest well beyond the autumn season. So whether you’re making apple cider vinegar, dehydrated apple crisps, or a batch of apple chutney, there are plenty of delicious options to preserve your apples for the months ahead.