Get ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey with these 20 delicious apple recipes, infused with the bold flavors and spices of India! From sweet treats like Apple Halwa with Cardamom and Ghee, to savory dishes like Spiced Apple Chutney with Mustard Seeds, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dessert, these apple recipes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of apples in Indian cuisine, from traditional desserts like Kheer and Barfi, to innovative creations like Apple and Paneer Tikka Skewers. With a mix of sweet and savory options, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, indulge in the flavors of India, and discover new ways to enjoy this beloved fruit!
Apple Halwa with Cardamom and Ghee
Experience the comforting warmth of a traditional Indian dessert with this simple recipe that combines tender apples, aromatic cardamom, and rich ghee.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the grated apples, sugar, and salt. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the apples are tender.
3. Stir in the ground cardamom and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the milk and stir well to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the halwa thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spiced Apple Chutney with Mustard Seeds
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or crackers. The addition of mustard seeds adds a delightful burst of flavor and aroma.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20 minutes).
3. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and mustard seeds. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apple and Carrot Kheer
Kheer is a traditional Indian pudding made with milk, sugar, and nuts. This recipe puts a twist on the classic by adding sweet apples and carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 2 medium apples, peeled and grated
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Add almonds and stir well.
3. Add grated apples and carrots to the mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater (if using).
5. Let cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Jalebi with Saffron Syrup
Experience the delightful fusion of Indian and American flavors with this unique recipe. Crispy apple-filled jalebis are drizzled with a sweet and aromatic saffron syrup, creating a truly unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients:
For the jalebis:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 cup apple puree
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
For the saffron syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each into a thin circle.
4. Fill the center of each circle with apple puree and fold to form a jalebi shape.
5. Fry the jalebis in hot oil until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
6. In a separate pan, combine sugar and water to make the syrup. Add soaked saffron threads and stir.
7. Serve the jalebis warm with the saffron syrup drizzled over the top. Optional: add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on frying time)
Apple and Coconut Ladoo
This sweet treat combines the warmth of coconut with the crunch of apples, making it a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Gala)
– 1/4 cup condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a pan, dry roast the coconut over medium heat until lightly browned.
2. Add chopped apple and cook for 2-3 minutes, until apples are slightly caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together condensed milk, honey, cardamom powder, and salt.
4. Add melted ghee or butter to the dry roasted coconut mixture and stir well.
5. Combine the apple-coconut mixture with the condensed milk mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Shape into small balls (ladoo) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Masala Apple Chai Infusion
Masala apple chai infusion combines the comfort of a warm cup of tea with the sweetness of apples and the spiciness of Indian-inspired spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a refreshing pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple chunks (any variety)
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple chunks, tea leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper.
2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the apples are tender.
4. Strain the infusion into cups and sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Apple and Paneer Tikka Skewers
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with these Apple and Paneer Tikka Skewers. Marinated paneer and apple chunks are grilled to perfection, creating a delightful combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 apples (any variety), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for grilling
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Add the paneer cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread paneer and apple pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the paneer is golden brown and the apples are caramelized.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Sabzi with Cumin and Turmeric
This Apple Sabzi is a twist on the traditional Indian sabzi, adding a sweet and crunchy touch from the apples. This recipe combines the warmth of cumin and turmeric with the freshness of cilantro, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced apple and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the apples are tender.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro.
6. Serve hot over your favorite Indian dish.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Apple and Mango Pickle
This sweet and tangy pickle combines the crunch of apples with the tropical flavor of mangoes, making it a perfect condiment for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious preserve in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or other firm varieties), peeled and chopped
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp ground coriander
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples and diced mango.
2. In a small saucepan, bring the vinegar, sugar, salt, cumin, and coriander to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the apple-mango mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Store the pickle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Apple Stuffed Paratha with Ajwain
Experience the perfect blend of Indian spices and fresh apple flavors in this unique paratha recipe. The ajwain adds a distinct, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
+ 1/4 teaspoon ajwain seeds
+ 1/4 teaspoon sugar
+ A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Apple and Saffron Phirni
Phirni, a traditional Indian rice pudding, gets a unique twist with the addition of tender apples and saffron. This sweet and aromatic dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a warm treat on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Milk or heavy cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, cardamom, saffron mixture, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the cooked rice to the saucepan and stir well.
4. Add the diced apple and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of milk or heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Cashew Barfi
This unique dessert combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creamy richness of cashews, all wrapped up in a delicious barfi treat. Perfect for a quick snack or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped fresh apples (any variety)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 1 tablespoon milk powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pan, combine apples, sugar, and melted ghee or butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in cashews, milk powder, and salt.
3. Grease an 8-inch square plate or mold with ghee or butter.
4. Pour the apple-cashew mixture into the prepared plate or mold.
5. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Apple and Ginger Rasam
This sweet and spicy rasam recipe combines the warmth of ginger with the crunch of apples, making it a perfect blend for a chilly evening. This flavorful soup is an innovative twist on traditional Indian rasams.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: a pinch of cinnamon powder for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the grated ginger and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add the diced apples, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the apples are tender.
5. Strain the rasam to remove any solids, if desired.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Apple and Jaggery Payasam
This traditional Indian dessert, also known as “payasam,” is a creamy and comforting treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of jaggery. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated jaggery
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Pinch of salt
– Cardamom powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, water, and jaggery in a large saucepan. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the jaggery dissolves.
2. Add the chopped apples, ghee, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well.
3. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the apples are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a pinch of cardamom powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Apple and Chickpea Curry
This sweet and savory curry combines the comfort of chickpeas with the unexpected crunch of apples, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, apple, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Mint Raita
A perfect side dish or snack for a warm day, this Apple and Mint Raita combines the sweetness of apples with the freshness of mint. The yogurt-based raita provides a creamy contrast to the crunchy apple and cooling mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the diced apple and chopped mint leaves.
2. Blend until smooth and the mixture is well combined.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
4. Add the apple-mint mixture to the yogurt mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Apple and Pistachio Kulfi
This creamy kulfi recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of pistachios, perfect for a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2-3 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or sweet apples work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in ground cardamom. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Add diced apples and chopped pistachios to the cooled mixture. Stir well.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, transfer to a container and drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Apple and Fenugreek Thepla
Thepla, a popular Gujarati flatbread, gets a delicious makeover with the addition of apples and fenugreek leaves. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup grated apple (any variety)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fenugreek leaves
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/16 inch thick).
6. Place a tablespoon of grated apple and chopped fenugreek leaves in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the edges to form a triangle or square shape, and press gently.
8. Heat ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
9. Cook thepla for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
10. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-7 minutes per batch
Apple and Tamarind Chutney
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tanginess of tamarind, creating a unique and delicious condiment perfect for snacking or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, tamarind paste, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
4. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of chutney
Apple and Saffron Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a popular Indian dessert made from yogurt, sugar, and spices. This recipe adds the sweetness of apples and the warmth of saffron to create a unique and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2-3 strands of saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup diced apples (any variety)
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add the sugar, saffron mixture, apple pieces, and cardamom powder. Mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, give the Shrikhand a good stir and adjust the sweetness if needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional saffron threads and apple slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None required. Chill time: 4 hours or overnight.
Summary
Discover the sweetness of Indian cuisine with these 20 delicious apple recipes! From traditional desserts like Apple Halwa with Cardamom and Ghee to innovative twists like Spiced Apple Chutney with Mustard Seeds, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making Apple Jalebi with Saffron Syrup or Apple and Coconut Ladoo, or explore savory options like Apple Sabzi with Cumin and Turmeric or Apple and Chickpea Curry. These recipes will have you falling in love with the flavors of India all over again!
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