Cracker Barrel Fried Apples: A Staple of Comfort Food
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are more than just a side dish; they are a warm reminder of Southern hospitality and home-cooked meals. These apples, simmered to perfection and coated in a luscious spiced syrup, offer a delightful blend of sweetness and spices that invoke a sense of comfort with every bite.
Recipe Details
- Ingredients:
- Golden Delicious apples: known for their balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Apple juice: enhances the natural flavors of the apples.
- Cornstarch: helps thicken the syrup for a glossy finish.
- Apple pie spice: a key spice blend that provides a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Cooking Instructions:
- Start by simmering sliced apples in apple juice until they are just tender.
- Mix cornstarch, apple pie spice, and additional apple juice to make a thick sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked apples, stirring gently to coat.
Discover a wide range of delicious apple recipes on our recipes page.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: a serving of fried apples typically contains about 120-160 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option.
- Dietary Fiber: apples are a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Vitamins and Minerals: apples provide vitamin C, potassium, and small amounts of iron.
The nutritional content of apples is explored further in our detailed guide on healthy eating.
History and Origin
Cracker Barrel has long been associated with classic Southern cooking, and their fried apples are a testament to the traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The dish itself reflects a time when simple, hearty ingredients were transformed into something special to be shared with family and friends.
Cooking Techniques
- Selecting Apples: Choosing the right type of apple is crucial; Golden Delicious is recommended for its sweet profile and firm texture that holds up well during cooking.
- Cooking Method: Gentle simmering is key to achieving the perfect tenderness without turning the apples into mush.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Fried apples are traditionally served alongside pork chops or roast chicken.
- As a Dessert: They can also top ice cream or be served with a sprinkle of granola for crunch.
Learn more about versatile side dishes on our about page.
Introduction to Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Cracker Barrel’s fried apples are a beloved and iconic dish that has become synonymous with the restaurant’s Southern-inspired cuisine. These tender and caramelized apple slices are cooked to perfection in a blend of butter, sugar, and warm spices, resulting in a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of entrees.
The recipe for Cracker Barrel’s fried apples reflects a rich tradition of Southern cooking, where fruits like apples were often fried as a means of preservation and flavor enhancement. Each bite of these delectable apples offers a balance of sweetness and tartness, along with hints of cinnamon and other spices that evoke a sense of home-cooked goodness.
Whether served alongside hearty breakfast dishes like pancakes and bacon, or as a comforting side to lunch and dinner entrees such as fried chicken or meatloaf, Cracker Barrel’s fried apples are a timeless favorite among diners of all ages. With their irresistible aroma and irresistible flavor, these fried apples have earned a well-deserved place in the hearts and appetites of Cracker Barrel patrons nationwide.
Recipe Details
Ingredients:
- 500g of penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 400g of canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200g of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-step Cooking Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle the diced mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve the penne alla mozzarella immediately, either on its own or with a side of garlic bread or salad. Buon appetito!
Nutritional Information
This recipe for penne alla mozzarella provides approximately 6 servings. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: Each serving contains around 400-450 calories, primarily from the pasta, cheese, and olive oil.
- Fat Content: The fat content per serving is approximately 15-20 grams, mainly from the olive oil and mozzarella cheese.
- Protein: Each serving offers about 15-20 grams of protein, primarily from the mozzarella cheese and the pasta.
- Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content per serving is around 50-60 grams, mainly from the penne pasta and the tomatoes.
- Fiber: This dish provides a moderate amount of fiber, with approximately 5-7 grams per serving, mainly from the pasta and the tomatoes.
- Other Nutrients: It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and iron, though exact amounts may vary depending on factors such as ingredient brands and preparation methods.
History and Origin
Fried apples are a beloved staple at Cracker Barrel, a chain of country-themed restaurants known for their homestyle cooking. While the exact origin of fried apples at Cracker Barrel is not widely documented, the dish itself reflects a longstanding tradition of Southern cuisine.
In Southern cooking, frying fruits like apples was a common practice dating back to early settlers in America. Apples were abundant, and frying them was a way to preserve them and create a delicious dish that could be enjoyed year-round.
At Cracker Barrel, the fried apples have become an iconic side dish, often served alongside classic Southern comfort foods like fried chicken, biscuits, and ham. The recipe typically involves cooking sliced apples in butter, sugar, and spices until they are tender and caramelized, resulting in a sweet and flavorful accompaniment to savory dishes.
While Cracker Barrel has modernized some aspects of its menu over the years, the fried apples remain a nostalgic favorite, evoking the flavors of traditional Southern cooking and the warmth of a home-cooked meal.
Cooking Techniques
Selecting the Right Apples:
When selecting apples for cooking, it’s important to choose varieties that hold their shape and flavor well when heated. Some popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Fuji apples. These varieties are firm and tart-sweet, providing a good balance of flavor and texture. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples, as they may turn mushy during cooking.
Cooking Methods for Perfect Texture:
- Sautéing: Sautéing apples in butter or oil over medium heat allows them to caramelize and develop a rich flavor. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Baking: Baking apples in the oven with a sprinkle of sugar and spices brings out their natural sweetness. Core the apples and fill the cavities with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter before baking until soft and tender.
- Frying: Frying thinly sliced apples in butter or oil on the stovetop creates a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender. Cook them over medium heat until golden brown and caramelized, then drain on paper towels before serving.
Experiment with different cooking methods to find the one that best suits your taste preferences and recipe requirements.
Serving Suggestions
Serving and Pairing Cracker Barrel Fried Apples:
Cracker Barrel fried apples are versatile and can be served as a delicious side dish or incorporated into various recipes. They pair well with classic Southern comfort foods like fried chicken, biscuits, and ham. For a complete meal, serve them alongside savory dishes such as pork chops or roasted turkey.
Creative Ideas for Incorporating Fried Apples into Meals:
- Breakfast Toppings: Use fried apples as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for a sweet and satisfying breakfast.
- Salad Additions: Add sliced fried apples to salads for a burst of sweetness and crunch. Pair them with mixed greens, toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
- Dessert Creations: Incorporate fried apples into desserts like pies, tarts, or cobblers. Layer them between flaky pie crusts or crumbly toppings for a comforting and indulgent treat.
- Sandwich Fillings: Use fried apples as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Pair them with sliced turkey or ham, cheese, and mustard for a savory-sweet flavor combination.
Get creative and experiment with different ways to enjoy Cracker Barrel fried apples in your meals for a touch of Southern-inspired goodness.
Modifications and Variations
- Healthier Option: To make the dish healthier, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional penne. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat mozzarella variety.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Make the recipe vegetarian by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative. For a vegan version, ensure the pasta is egg-free, and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Protein Boost: Add protein by incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu into the dish. Simply sauté the protein separately and add it to the pasta along with the sauce.
- Spice it Up: Customize the flavor by adding red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
- Extra Veggies: Increase the nutritional value by adding more vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce. Sauté them with the garlic and onion before adding the tomatoes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
By making these modifications, you can tailor the recipe to suit various dietary needs and taste preferences while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Yes, Cracker Barrel does sell fried apples as a side dish on their menu at their restaurants. However, the exact number of calories in Cracker Barrel fried apples may vary depending on factors such as portion size and preparation method. As a rough estimate, a serving of fried apples from Cracker Barrel may contain around 170-200 calories.
Fried apples in a can are pre-cooked sliced apples that have been seasoned and preserved in syrup. They are typically sold in the canned fruit section of grocery stores. The nutritional content of canned fried apples can vary depending on the brand and any added ingredients such as sugar or preservatives.
Yes, you can buy canned fried apples at many grocery stores or online retailers. They offer a convenient option for enjoying fried apples at home without the need for preparation from scratch. When purchasing canned fried apples, be sure to check the ingredient list and nutritional information for any additives or preservatives.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples serve as a versatile dish that can enhance any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also comforts the soul, making it a beloved classic in American cuisine.