Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
Introduction
This Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce is a vibrant and healthy twist on classic applesauce. Combining sweet apples, earthy beets, and fresh strawberries, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect as a snack or a topping, it’s easy to make and naturally colorful.
Ingredients
- 6 apples, cored and roughly chopped (skins on or peeled)
- 1 medium red beet (about 5 ounces), peeled and roughly chopped
- 16 ounces fresh strawberries (about 4 cups whole, frozen works too)
- 1½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the apples, beet, strawberries, lemon juice, cinnamon, and water in your Instant Pot.
- Step 2: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing.
- Step 3: Cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.
- Step 4: When cooking finishes, carefully quick release the pressure.
- Step 5: Remove the lid and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, allow it to cool slightly and blend in a regular blender.
- Step 6: The sauce may seem thin when warm but will thicken as it cools. Serve immediately or let cool completely before storing.
Tips & Variations
- For a sweeter applesauce, add a bit of honey or maple syrup after blending if desired.
- Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t in season; just add them frozen to the pot.
- Peeling the apples is optional, but leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times instead of fully pureeing.
Storage
Store the cooled applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in suitable containers or freezer bags for several months. To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, any apple variety works. Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, while sweeter apples like Fuji will make a milder sauce.
Do I need an Instant Pot to make this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for the Instant Pot, you can make it on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients until soft and then blending. It will take longer but the result is similar.
PrintStrawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe
This vibrant Strawberry Beet Instant Pot Applesauce is a healthy and flavorful twist on classic applesauce. Made with fresh apples, beets, and strawberries, it’s naturally sweet and packed with nutrients. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare, and the result is a smooth, colorful sauce perfect as a snack or dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Fruit and Vegetables
- 6 apples, cored and roughly chopped (skins on for extra fiber)
- 1 medium red beet (about 5 ounces), washed, peeled and roughly chopped
- 16 ounces fresh strawberries (about 4 cups whole; frozen berries are okay too)
Liquids and Spices
- 1½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cored and chopped apples, peeled and chopped beet, strawberries, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and water into your Instant Pot.
- Seal Instant Pot: Secure the Instant Pot lid and lock it into place. Ensure the valve is switched to the sealing position to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes. Note that it will take approximately 10 minutes for the pot to reach the required pressure before the cooking countdown begins.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Take care when turning the valve to avoid burns.
- Puree Sauce: Remove the lid carefully and use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth or to your preferred consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, allow the mixture to cool slightly and blend in a countertop blender.
- Cool and Store: The sauce will appear thin while warm but will thicken as it cools. Enjoy immediately or cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Keeping the apple skins adds extra fiber and nutrients but you can peel them if you prefer a smoother applesauce.
- Beets can vary in size; adjust quantity if needed to maintain balance of flavors.
- If using frozen strawberries, no need to thaw before cooking.
- The sauce thickens upon cooling, so don’t be alarmed if it seems thin just after blending.
- This recipe is dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Keywords: strawberry beet applesauce, instant pot applesauce, healthy applesauce recipe, vegan applesauce, fruit sauce, pressure cooker applesauce
