Apple Crisp
This apple crisp recipe has the perfect balance of juicy spiced apples and a crispy, oat topping. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients.
Apple season is a delightful time of year, bringing a bountiful harvest of crisp, juicy fruits that are perfect for everything from pies to cider. As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows cooler, local orchards burst with an array of apple varieties, each with its own unique flavour and texture. This is the ideal moment to embrace the joys of cooking with apples, whether you're simmering a warm apple chutney or whipping up a comforting apple crisp. Sourcing these fruits from nearby farms not only supports local economies but also reduces our carbon footprint, making apple season a time of both indulgence and mindful eating.
As the orchards burst with colour and flavour, it’s the perfect opportunity to incorporate these luscious fruits into your cooking and baking.
Apple Pie spice blend includes: cinnamon, ginger and fenugreek.
These spices not only elevate the flavour but also offer natural healing properties.
GINGER
Ginger has been used for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties and as a treatment for nausea.
Ginger’s Healing Superpowers: ANALGESIC, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY, ANTISEPTIC, ANTISPASMODIC, CARMINATIVE, LAXATIVE, SIALAGOGUE, STIMULANT, STOMACHIC,TONIC
Did you know: Pickled ginger is served with Japanese sushi dishes to counteract any potential toxicity from eating raw fish. It takes advantage of the gut biome promoting qualities associated with pickled foods and the detoxing properties associated with ginger’s compounds and energetic qualities.
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Ginger produces a hot, fragrant spice that has been used in candy, foods, medicines, teas, beverages, and wines. It is used in international cooking for its flavor and ability to detox food. It is a well-known cure for motion sickness and has a long worldwide history of medicinal use.
Also Known As: Ginger Root
Medicinal Uses: Nausea, sea sickness, morning sickness, stomach upset from chemotherapy, dyspepsia, gastroparesis, constipation, colic, coughs, ear aches, sore throat, relieve arthritic pain, menstrual pain, low back pain, irritable bowel, loss of appetite, poor circulation, cleanse the lymph, promotes sweating, prevents stroke and heart attacks, lowers blood pressure.
Parts Most Frequently Used: Root, Leaf
Flavors/Temps: Acrid, Hot, Slightly Sweet, Dry
Caution: Considered very safe. Use carefully if the stomach condition is caused by Heat, as ginger is already a hot, dry herb.
Ginger is often used with honey to help mask the flavor of other herbs that are either very bitter or distasteful. Recent research has verified that ginger helps other herbs reach their destination, confirming its title as a key guide herb (or tropism enhancer). In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) ginger is also known to help reduce the toxicity of other herbs. Ginger also has important anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties.
The American Cancer Society has promoted ginger as a treatment to prevent cancer tumors from developing. The Mayo Clinic reports that there is evidence for effective use of ginger to counter nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy. As ginger does not interact with chemotherapy drugs, it is often recommended as safe for calming the stomach during these kinds of treatments.
Ginger has a potent, perspiration-inducing action that helps cleanse the system of toxins. It is commonly found in most detoxing programs because it can stimulate digestion and promote circulation and sweating, helping to cleanse a build-up of waste and toxins in the liver, colon, and other organs.
The ancient Egyptians believed ginger was a diluter, desiccator (creates a dry environment), and emollient for treating sore throats. Ginger was known in 9th century Germany and France. Buttermilk-based drinks flavored with ginger were used in 11th century Europe. It was then often traded, at high prices, on the Silk Road throughout the Middle Ages.
Many cultures have benefited from using this herb. The Chinese recognize ginger as a whole body Yang Tonifying herb that is good for Warming the Body and Lifting the Spirit. The ancient Hawaiians used to drink the sweet juice from the stems of ginger flower heads after a long hike. In Ayurvedic medicine, ginger is used to treat pain, arthritis and blood platelet clumping.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ginger is often used for conditions of Exterior Deficiency, such as colds and flu symptoms, when sweating is not improving the condition. The skin of ginger is also used to promote urination and reduce edema. Ginger’s ability to Cleanse Toxins from the system is one of its many key uses in TCM. It has even been shown to significantly improve symptoms and liver chemistry associated with NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).
In Chinese culture, ginger is a symbol of good health and longevity. It is often found in Korean New Year beverages and candied, it is served in the “Tray of Togetherness”.
CINNAMON
Used for centuries as a healing herb to boost vitality, improve circulation, relieve tension & depression, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar, and more. There are two types of cinnamon. Ceylon and Cassia. Most cinnamon you buy in stores are the Cassia version where as the Ceylon cinnamon, the “true” cinnamon is a much more rare kind. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka and parts of India. Cassia cinnamon originated in southern China. Cassia cinnamon is more spicy while Ceylon is sweeter and more delicate. Ceylon cinnamon is not as common and is more expensive than the Cassia variety. Studies have been done but it’s not possible to say which one has more health benefits. From the research I have done and from what I have heard Ceylon cinnamon has less potential to cause harm when consumed regularly than the Cassia version.
Cinnamon’s Healing Superpowers: ANALGESIC, ANTICANCER, ANTISEPTIC, ANTISPASMODIC, APHRODISIAC, AROMATIC, CARDIAC, CARMINATIVE, EMMENAGOGUE, INSECTICIDE, STIMULANT, STOMACHIC, TONIC, VERMIFUGE
Three ways to incorporate more cinnamon into your morning meal:
Sprinkle cinnamon on top of homemade oatmeal
Add cinnamon to homemade applesauce
Add cinnamon to homemade french toast batter
Did you know: Cinnamon is an ingredient in five of our signature spice blends:
Apple Pie Spice Blend™
Pumpkin Spice Blend™
Butter Chicken Spice Blend™
Taco Spice Blend™
Mayne Street Spice Blend™
What is your favourite way to use cinnamon?
ANCIENT HEALER: Cinnamon has a history as a spice, a food preservative, a medicine, an incense, and a gift considered worthy of the gods.
Three ways you can include cinnamon in your daily rituals:
add to your morning pot of herbal tea
sprinkle on your next bowl of homemade oatmeal
add essential oil to a diffuser
Try Serenity Spice Blends calming essential oil blend
“The Scent Sensation”
1 drop cinnamon
2 drops bergamot
1 drop frankincense
FLAVORS THAT GO WITH CINNAMON
Add even more flavor to your meals with these herbs and spices. They go great with cinnamon.
Turmeric:
McCormick Turmeric hails from India, where it’s considered a sacred part of Hindi culture. We monitor its progress from field to package to ensure consistent color and quality in every bottle. The turmeric plant hides its brilliant color underground, showing only glossy green leaves and multi-petaled white flowers. But dig up the root, carefully clean and dry it, and you have an extraordinary spice beloved as much for its color as its flavor. Our pure turmeric in ground form is a lively partner for infusing curries, soups, stews, rubs, marinades and vegetable and rice dishes with beautiful color and citrusy aroma.
Cumin:
Cumin is one of the top 10 selling spices in the U.S. The spice dates back to Egypt 4,000 years ago, and McCormick Cumin is hand-harvested, sun-dried and carefully screened so you know you're getting nothing but the purest flavor. Add this spice for a warm flavor and earthy color to everyday soups, stews, meats and vegetables.
Thyme:
The plant’s tiny leaves—just a quarter inch at most in length—must be carefully harvested, cleaned, dried and milled to retain their rich color, piney aroma and earthy flavor. In the ancient world, thyme was a symbol of courage and bravery. One of the highest compliments to pay a Greek warrior, for instance, was to say he smelled of thyme. And in the Middle Ages, thyme was used to fend off nightmares. Today, our pure thyme holds its greatest place of honor in the kitchen as one of our most popular herbs.
Nutmeg:
Nutmeg’s sweet distinctive flavor is traditional in gingerbread, eggnog and rice pudding. Add a pinch to scalloped potatoes, creamed spinach and béchamel sauce
Ginger:
The very finest ginger comes from small holder farmers on one to two acre plots of land off the Malabar Coast of India. Ginger has enjoyed some unusual uses, including warding off the plague during Henry VIII’s time. In the 19th century, ginger was commonly sprinkled on top of beer or ale and then stirred into the drink with a hot poker. Today, ginger is an essential ingredient in all kinds of sweet and savory dishes.
FENUGREEK
Fenugreek has a long history of being used as both a spice and a healing herb. Its use dates back over 6,000 years.
4 key points about traditional uses of fenugreek :
Ancient Egypt: Fenugreek was prized for its medicinal properties and was used in mummification, burn treatment, and to induce childbirth.
Ancient Greece and Rome: The Greeks and Romans used fenugreek to treat infections, respiratory conditions, and intestinal issues. The Greek physician Hippocrates described it as a soothing herb.
Traditional Indian Medicine: In traditional Indian medicine, fenugreek seeds are used to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and diabetes.
Culinary Uses: Fenugreek is a common ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisine. It is used in curries, pickles, spice blends, and more.
Fenugreek's versatility and numerous health benefits have made it a valuable addition to both kitchens and medicine cabinets across various cultures.
Fenugreek has a unique and complex flavor profile. Here are some key characteristics:
Nutty and Sweet: Fenugreek seeds have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor, somewhat similar to maple syrup.
Bitter Undertones: There is also a mild bitterness, especially when the seeds are used whole or ground.
Earthy and Warm: The overall taste is earthy and warm, making it a popular addition to spice blends and savory dishes.
Fenugreek is often used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines to add depth and complexity to dishes. Its distinctive flavor can enhance curries, stews, and spice mixes like garam masala.
Fenugreek pairs well with a variety of spices, enhancing the flavor profile of many dishes. Here are some spices that complement fenugreek:
Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that balances the bitterness of fenugreek.
Coriander: Provides a citrusy, slightly sweet note that complements fenugreek's complexity.
Turmeric: Offers a mild, earthy flavor and vibrant color, often used together in curry blends.
Mustard Seeds: Adds a pungent, slightly spicy flavor that works well with fenugreek.
Ginger: Brings a zesty, slightly sweet heat that pairs nicely with fenugreek.
Garlic: Enhances the savory aspect of dishes with fenugreek.
Chili Powder: Adds heat and depth, balancing fenugreek's bitterness.
Cinnamon: Provides a warm, sweet-spicy note that can add complexity to dishes with fenugreek.
These spices are often used together in various cuisines, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African dishes, to create rich and flavorful meals.
YES! cooking with fenugreek can help support hormonal balance in women. Here are some ways it can be beneficial:
**Phytoestrogen Properties**: Fenugreek contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. This can help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as those experienced during menopause.
**Menstrual Health**: Fenugreek has been shown to relieve menstrual cramps and other symptoms of dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods).
**Lactation Support**: Fenugreek is known to increase breast milk production in lactating women by stimulating the mammary glands.
**Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects**: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of fenugreek can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can positively impact hormone regulation.
Incorporating fenugreek into your diet, whether through cooking or as a tea, can be a simple and effective way to support hormonal health. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal remedies.
As you immerse yourself in the joys of apple season, remember to share stories and recipes with loved ones. This season is about connection, not just to the land but also to each other. Embrace the bounty of the season and let the flavours inspire you!
Apple Crisp Ingredients:
6 - 8 apples (any variety)
wedge of lemon
1 cup oats
½ cup oat flour
¼ tsp Apple Pie Spice Blend (cinnamon, ginger, fenugreek)
¼ cup melted butter
3 tbsp brown sugar
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 F
Cut apples up into even 1/2” chunks (drizzle lemon to help prevent browning)
In a bowl mix the oats, oat flour, spices and brown sugar
Drizzle with melted butter and stir until well coated.
Place the apples into a 9x9 pyrex dish and then top with crumble mixture.
Cover with foil and bake for 35 min
Remove foil and bake for additional 15 min until top is golden brown
Serve with fresh whipped cream/ice cream
