2cinnamon sticksyou can also use ground cinnamon, but I prefer the sticks
Instructions
Chop, peel & core apples.
15 Small apples
Add apples to a clean jar. The size will depend on how many apples you want to ferment.
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 1 lemon, ½ cup water & 1 teaspoon salt.
½ cup filtered water, 1 piece lemon, 1 tsp salt
Pour the liquid mixture over the apples. Add filtered water so that all the apples are covered. Add the cinnamon stick to the jar.
2 cinnamon sticks
Add your fermentation weight to the top and press down, so that the floating apples are submerged below the surface.
Fit the jar with a fermentation lid or cover it with cloth & secure it with a rubber band
Fermented for 3-4 days, depending on your room temperature. Keep out of direct sunlight. You should see bubbles forming in the jar, as the natural sugars get consumed by the bacteria and carbon dioxide is formed. The apples should smell slightly alcoholic. The longer you leave them to ferment, the higher the alcohol content will be. They will have a slightly tangy flavor.
Taste your apples after a couple of days.. Once the taste & fermentation level is to where you like it, remove the fermentation weight. Secure with an airlock lid and store in the fridge.
Notes
What can I use fermented apples for?
Fermented apples can be used in various culinary applications, adding unique flavors and nutritional benefits to a wide range of dishes. Here are some creative ways to use fermented apples:
Fermented Apple Sauce: Use fermented apples to make a tangy and flavorful apple sauce. Simply blend the fermented apples with a bit of water and sweetener if desired, and enjoy it as a condiment or a topping for desserts and pancakes.
Fermented Apple Chutney: Combine fermented apples with spices, onions, vinegar, and sugar to create a delicious apple chutney. It pairs well with cheeses, grilled meats, and sandwiches.
Fermented Apple Dressing: Puree fermented apples with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings to make a unique and probiotic-rich salad dressing.
Fermented Apple Salsa: Dice fermented apples and mix them with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and chili for a tangy and refreshing salsa that goes well with chips, tacos, and grilled dishes.
Fermented Apple Smoothies: Blend fermented apples with yogurt or plant-based milk and other fruits for a nutritious and probiotic-packed smoothie.
Fermented Apple Muffins: Incorporate fermented apples into muffin recipes for a delightful twist on traditional apple muffins.
Fermented Apple Ice Cream Topping: Use fermented apples as a tangy topping for vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Fermented Apple Relish: Combine fermented apples with onions, mustard seeds, and vinegar to make a relish that complements sandwiches and grilled meats.
Fermented Apple Coleslaw: Shred fermented apples and mix them with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing to create a probiotic-rich coleslaw.
Fermented Apple Cocktail: Muddle fermented apples in a glass with your favorite spirits and mixers to add a unique twist to your cocktails