Warm, stewed fruit bliss

When the weather is chilly and fresh fruit isn't as accessible, I like stewing fruit to serve with my morning yogurt. Plus as a bargain hunter, I'm also often drawn to the organic dried fruit at Costco which I buy and freeze to maintain longer 'shelf' life. 

Here's what you'll need. Use organic fruit if possible:

• 3-4 washed and cored apples (A variety is alway good for more complex taste and slight variety in texture.) Slice in bite size chunks, keeping the skin on. This recipe can be made exclusively using apples.
• 1/3 basket rinsed blueberries - optional ingredient (I had some in the fridge that were starting to dry out and I didn't want to waste them.)
• 4-5 dried figs and apricots, halved or quartered - optional ingredient
• 1-2 teaspoons good real vanilla
• 1 heaping teaspoon of peeled, sliced fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 ground or grated nutmeg
• 1/3 maple syrup
• 2/3 cup water (I use filtered water from my Brita for cleaner taste.)

Cook on the stove at medium heat for 15-20 minutes until liquid starts to thicken and apples are very tender but not applesauce mushy.

Serve with walnuts or almonds for added crunch if you're serving warm in a bowl.

This fruit can remain in a glass container in your refrigerator for up to two weeks or can be frozen in individual glass jars for single servings. It can then be reheated or I also like to make yogurt smoothies with it. You just add yogurt and coconut water.

Bon appetite! Cheers to a healthy and prosperous 2020.