Apple Sauce

Steps

1. 1
   Use a proper cooking apple. Eating apples hold their shape and give you stewed chunks rather than sauce.
2. 2
   Melt the butter in a heavy pan and add the chopped apple, water, lemon peel and cinnamon.
3. 3
   Cover and cook over low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apple collapses entirely.
4. 4
   Remove the lemon peel and cinnamon stick.
5. 5
   Beat with a wooden spoon for a smooth-ish sauce, or leave it rough if you prefer texture. A blender makes it gluey.
6. 6
   Stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt only at the end, tasting first — good apples need very little.
7. 7
   Serve warm or cold. It freezes well in portions.