Fall in Asheville: A Celebration of Apples and Local Bounty
As the crisp air of autumn sweeps into Asheville, it brings with it the delightful aroma of freshly picked apples. This time of year, the apple orchards are alive with activity, and the vibrant reds, yellows, and greens of the apple varieties shine as brightly as the fall foliage surrounding them. There’s just something magical about apples in the fall—whether it’s that comforting slice of warm apple pie, a steaming mug of hot apple cider, or the simple pleasure of munching on a fresh apple right after picking it from the tree.
Apple Picking Season in Full Swing
Apple season is a cherished tradition, and it feels especially poignant this year. Despite the challenges many orchards faced from extreme weather, the resilient apple trees have managed to provide us with their delicious fruit. While Henderson County holds the title of the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina, orchards from this area are generously sharing their harvest with the farmers’ markets in Buncombe County. You can find treats beyond apples, including fresh pressed cider, apple donuts, and assorted preserves.
Some familiar names to look for are Creasman Farms, which will be at various markets like Asheville City and Black Mountain, and McConnell Farms at North Asheville. East Asheville is welcoming Lee’s One Fortune Farm, which is introducing special varieties of apples to the local markets. If you haven’t already, it’s the perfect time to visit these markets, grab some apples, and enjoy the harvest season with your family.
Homemade Treats: Applesauce and Apple Butter
There’s nothing quite like the smell of homemade applesauce wafting through your home. If you’re in the mood for some kitchen fun, making applesauce from scratch is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Start with about six pounds of apples—be sure to ask the farmer which types are best for sauce. After peeling and coring, cut them into slices, and toss them in a large pot. Add one cup of apple cider, juice from one lemon, and your choice of sweetener, like brown sugar or honey.
Don’t forget those cozy fall spices! A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or perhaps even some locally grown ginger can elevate your sauce to new levels. Cook everything covered on medium heat for around 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now, here’s a fun decision—do you prefer your applesauce smooth or chunky? Use a potato masher for chunkier applesauce or blend for a smoother finish.
And if you find yourself with leftovers or want a new project, you can easily transform your applesauce into apple butter. Just keep cooking that sauce at a boil, stirring continuously as it thickens into a creamy delight. Once it has reached the perfect consistency, you’ll want to store it in airtight containers—some can even go in the freezer for later enjoyment!
Fall Salad and Other Delicious Dishes
Not ready to embark on the cooking journey? No problem! A refreshing fall salad featuring kale, crumbled feta, roasted butternut squash, and chopped apples is a perfect way to incorporate that crisp apple flavor without the heat of the stove. Drizzle it with a balsamic vinaigrette, or try a seasonal dressing from Ali Rae Foods like their Cranberry Sage Vinaigrette, available at local markets.
Family Fun and Community Support
If you’re looking for some family-friendly activities, consider visiting local U-pick apple orchards. Nothing beats the experience of picking your own apples straight from the tree. For those who faced hardship during recent weather events, this is also a wonderful opportunity to support local farmers. If you’ve qualified for Disaster SNAP benefits, these can be used at participating farmers’ markets to replace lost food, while supporting our community.
As you stroll through the markets, you’ll likely find a variety of fresh produce, including tomatoes, peppers, and even fresh herbs. Don’t forget to check out local farms for fresh meats, cheeses, and baked goods. There’s truly something special about savoring the flavors of the season while supporting our hardworking farmers.
So this fall, as the leaves change and the temperatures cool, let’s embrace all things apple! Whether you’re baking, cooking, or simply enjoying them fresh, apples are a treat that embodies the warmth and spirit of our community.
