This recipe is adapted from http://www.virginiaapples.org/recipes/honbak.html
6 large apples (see comments below)
6 tsp. honey
1/4 cup orange juice
1 tsp. sugar
pinch cinnamon
1 orange
Core apples, being careful not to cut all the way through. Peel about 1/3 of the way down from the stem end. Combine honey and orange juice; pour into centers of apples. Set in baking dish. Pour a little hot water in bottom of pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes or until apples are tender. Sprinkle tops with a little sugar and nutmeg.
For best results try Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonagold apples. You can also try this with walnuts and/or raisins or other dried fruits added in. This would also be great with pears.
I chose this month’s recipe for a couple of reasons. First and foremost it’s apple season! Also, fall is right around the corner. In Chinese medicine the fall is related to the Lung system. As the temps cool and the air dries out we have to be careful to protect the respiratory system which is particularly susceptible to dry air. The apples and honey in this recipe are great for keeping the Lung system moist. Adding in some cinnamon gives the immune system a little boost as well.
So if you find yourself with bags full of apples that you picked and don’t know what to do with them, try this recipe for a nice treat.
