Fried “Apples” Keto Style

If you’re missing apples, this idea can help. Not the same as a raw apple, but fried apples can dress up a lot of different dishes. Great over yogurt, chia pudding, ice cream or just served with whipped cream. Could also be used in pies, or crumbles. Pre-cook chayote to about half done first. Adding a sugar free caramel syrup, home made or store bought, can make this a whole new dish. The chayote is a firmer, crisper option.

Fried “Apples” (Chayote)

Ingredients:

• 1 C. chayote squash, peeled and cut into small cubes (remove seed)
• 1 T. butter
• 1-3 T. sweetener, to taste
• 2 T. water
• 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon (or apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice)

Steps:

1. Peel and dice chayote, removing pit from center.
2. Place chayote in a microwave proof bowl, add water. Cover and microwave 5 minutes, test doneness and continue cooking in 1 minute increments until desired texture; drain.
3. Heat the butter in a medium frying pan over medium/med hi heat, add chayote and all remaining ingredients.
4. Stir fry the mixture until the chayote browns and softens, about 10 minutes.
5. Turn heat to low (add more water if necessary), cover and let sit for 5 minutes; stir occasionally. Turn off burner and cool; drain juice and discard.
6. Place the apples in a container and refrigerate or freeze until ready to use.

Fried “Apples” (Zucchini)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini – peeled, quartered, then sliced about 1/4″ thick.
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1.5 tbsp sweetener
• 1 tsp apple pie spice
• 3-4 drops of vanilla or apple extract (optional)

Steps:

1. Combine water, lemon, and zucchini in a pot, place lid on top, simmer for 3-5 minutes.
2. Remove lid, add in sweetener, simmer for 2-3 minutes more, or until it reaches your desired tenderness. If mix seems a little watery, don’t worry.
3. Once the zucchini is tender to your liking, add in the apple pie spice and blend well. This will thicken up the liquid quite a bit. If it still seems too watery, you can add a pinch of xanthan gum.
4. Once cooled, store in an airtight container in the fridge.