Simple Applesauce and Challah
Source: Micah & Joshua Siva, 1,2,3, Nosh With Me
Recipe Type: Appetizers and Sides
This recipe appears in 1,2,3, Nosh With Me by Micah Siva and Joshua Siva (The Collective Book Studio, 2023) and was demonstrated at the Foodwise Classroom on August 26, 2023.
Makes 2 cups of applesauce
INGREDIENTS
4 medium apples (I like to use Granny Smith)
¾ cup water
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional
¼ cup sugar
½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 pod star anise
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
PREPARATION
Peel the apples, if you prefer. Core and roughly chop them.
Combine the apples, water, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Add the sugar and any additional spices, if using. Cover and cook over medium heat until softened, 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool.
Mash with a potato masher or fork, or blend with an immersion blender. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Makes 1 (1½ lb) loaf of challah, 10-12 servings
INGREDIENTS
3 ¾ cups bread flour, plus more for shaping
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 package) instant yeast
1 teaspoon kosher salt
⅔ cup warm water
3 tablespoons sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus 1 tablespoon for greasing
For egg wash
1 large egg, whisked
1 tablespoon water
PREPARATION
Oil a large bowl and set it aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, and salt until combined.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, sugar, eggs, and oil.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a rough dough forms.
Lightly flour a work surface. Tip the dough onto the floured work surface and knead until a smooth-soft dough forms, 8 to 10 minutes. (You can also do this in a stand mixer, using the dough hook. Mix on low until smooth, 5 to 10 minutes.)
Transfer the dough to the oiled bowl, cover with a damp, clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Lightly flour a work surface. Punch down the dough in the bowl to remove any air bubbles and transfer it to the floured work surface.
Shape as desired. To make a coil, roll the dough into a 30-inch rope and create a spiral. Hide the end by tucking it underneath the coil and place it on the baking tray.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the dough with the egg wash. Sprinkle your favorite toppings over the top, if using.
Bake for 20 minutes. Turn the tray and bake for another 20 minutes, or until golden brown. If using a thermometer, it should read 190°F.
Enjoy by itself or with applesauce and honey.
