Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or bacon grease)
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup water (or apple cider)
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter or bacon grease in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften and lightly brown on the edges.
- Step 2: In a small separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples in the skillet. Stir gently until all the apple slices are coated with the spice mixture.
- Step 3: Pour the water (or apple cider) into the skillet, stirring briefly to dissolve any sugar stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet loosely, and allow the apples to cook and steam for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
- Step 5: Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-low. Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the liquid to reduce and thicken into a syrupy glaze. Serve the Southern Fried Apples warm alongside pork, pancakes, or ice cream.
Notes
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, noting that the apple slices will soften further upon cooling.
- To maintain the apples' shape and prevent mushiness, gently reheat them in a small skillet over very low heat, adding a splash of water or cider if the glaze has become too stiff.
- If you opt for bacon grease instead of butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly, as the grease inherently provides a savory depth and salinity that enhances the traditional Southern flavor.
- For an unexpected twist, spoon these warm, spiced apples generously over sharp cheddar cheese slices or mix them directly into your morning yogurt or oatmeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American