Description
This vibrant and healthy Strawberry Beet Applesauce is made effortlessly in an Instant Pot, combining the natural sweetness of apples and strawberries with the earthy flavor and nutrients of beets. It offers a colorful twist on traditional applesauce, perfect as a snack or a side dish packed with fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Vegetables
- 6 apples, cored and roughly chopped (skins on for extra fiber or peeled if preferred)
- 1 medium red beet (or two small, about 5 ounces, washed, peeled and roughly chopped)
- 16 ounces fresh strawberries (about 4 cups whole, frozen berries can be used as well)
Flavorings & Liquids
- 1½ Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped apples, peeled and chopped beet, fresh (or frozen) strawberries, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and water into the Instant Pot.
- Seal Instant Pot: Close the Instant Pot lid and lock it securely. Ensure the steam release valve is set to the ‘sealing’ position to maintain pressure during cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes. Note that the pot will take approximately 10 minutes to build up pressure before the cooking time starts.
- Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully switching the valve to ‘venting’ to release steam.
- Puree Applesauce: Carefully remove the lid. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth or to your desired texture. Alternatively, allow the mixture to cool slightly and puree in a blender.
- Cool and Store: The applesauce will appear thin when warm but will thicken as it cools. Enjoy immediately or let cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freezing for several months.
Notes
- Leaving the apple skins on increases fiber content, but peeling is optional based on texture preference.
- Frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are not available; no need to thaw before cooking.
- The sauce texture can be adjusted by blending more or less.
- To reduce acidity, adjust lemon juice quantity to taste.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes (including pressure build-up and cooking)
- Category: Sauce, Snack
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: strawberry beet applesauce, instant pot applesauce, healthy applesauce, beet recipes, strawberry recipes, pressure cooker applesauce
