3poundsorganic applespeeled, cored and chopped into bite sized pieces
3thin slices of fresh ginger
5cardamom pods
1star anise
½cupapple ciderjuice
¼cupmaple syrup
1Tbsplemon juice
2cinnamon sticks
Instructions
Place the cardamom pods, star anise and ginger onto a small piece of cheesecloth, tie up the corners with a piece of kitchen string to create a little pouch. (to avoid fishing around for them later)
Add the spice bundle, chopped apples, apple cider, maple syrup, lemon juice, and cinnamon sticks to a medium sized pot.
Place the lid on the pot and bring to a boil over medium high heat.
Lower head to medium low and simmer for 30 - 35 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. Cook until the apples are soft and beginning to break down. Be sure to give it a stir every 10 minutes or so, to avoid sticking.
Once the apples are cooked, take the pot off the heat and remove the spice bundle and
cinnamon sticks.
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Transfer the apple mixture to a blender, food processor or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Be sure to allow the steam to escape while processing in a blender or food processor.
Transfer the blended apple mixture to a 9 x 13 inch pan and place in the preheated
oven. Cook for 1 ½ to 1 ¾ hours, stirring every 15 to 20 minutes. The mixture will thicken considerably and turn from a yellowish pink to a deep golden brown color when ready.
Remove from oven and cool. It will thicken up even more as it cools.
Transfer to a clean jar and store in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze or can the apple butter.