As we head into fall, we will have an abundance of delicious apples.  Since Fall and apples seem to go together, I thought it would be a good time to share some of my apple recipes.  I have chosen two recipes featuring apples that are also diabetic friendly.  You can serve these recipes to family and friends without having to worry whether there are any diabetics in the group.  The Apple Pork Chops obviously features the popular combination of apples and pork.  This skillet meal is quick and easy to fix yet it is oh so yummy.  The Simple and Delicious Homemade Applesauce is quick to make and tastes so much better than what you buy at the grocery store.  It is well worth the few minutes it takes to make this wonderful apple treat.

APPLE PORK CHOPS

4 lean pork chops

1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin

1 1/4 cups water

1 tsp chicken-flavored bouillon granules

1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

3 medium apples, peeled and sliced

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Spray a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray or heat 2 teaspoons of canola oil and brown the pork chops in the pan with the onion.

In a small bowl combine the water, bouillon, and pepper, stirring well to dissolve all the bouillon.  Add the mixture to the skillet with the pork chops and onion.  Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.  Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.  Skim off any fat.

Add the apple slices and the cinnamon to the skillet.  Return lid to skillet and simmer for another 15 minutes.  Serve hot.

SIMPLE AND DELICIOUS HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE

3 lbs apples, peeled, cored, chopped

3 cups water (approximately)

1/4 cup (or more to taste, depending on apples) Splenda granular

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Place the prepared apples in a medium saucepan and add the water to just barely cover the apples.  Simmer the mixture over a medium-low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the apples are tender.  Pour the mixture into a food mill or blender and run until smooth but not thin.  Return to the pan and add the Splenda granular, lemon juice, and cinnamon.  Cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

This is great served as a dessert or as a side with pork chops or pork roast.  It can also be spread on whole-grain toast for a breakfast treat or a snack.

Enjoy!