By HELEN W. SMITH

By HELEN W. SMITH

Eitcuin Agent Heme Economics

Most of us have heard the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While this may refer to healthful eating in general as a preventative measure against certain illnesses, there is a lot to be said for the apple itself.

Apples have much to boast nutritionally. For only 80 calories per medium apple, you get a good shot of vitamin C and potassium and only a trace of fact. Plus apples are a good source of fiber which aids digestion.

Substitute Applesauce

Using applesauce to lower the fat content of breads and cakes is a growing nutritional trend. Simply replace some or all of the oil, butter, or shortening in the recipe with an equal amount of applesauce.

Apple For Cooking

Apples are at their peak from now through November. Check for fruit that has good color and smooth skin without bruises.

The variety of apples depends on how you plan to use them. Any type is fine for eating out of hand, but for cooking or baking, try one of these: Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Rome Beauty, York Imperial, Granny Smith, Stayman, or Winesap.

Apple Guide

If you need to locate local orchards for buying or pick-your-own apples, call the Rappahannock Extension Office at 675-3619 for a copy of the Fruit Guide listing the orchards in Rappahannock County. We also have some consumer brochures from the Virginia Apple Commission that describe varieties and cooking tips.

Apple Cookbook

The Extension Homemakers have copies of their apple cookbook “Apples...Rappahannock Style” for sale at $3. Proceeds benefit the community service projects and their scholarship to a graduating senior each June. Copies are available at the Extension Office and several local orchards.

Yogurt Apple Spice Cake

2 3/4 cup flour

2 1/4 cup sugar

2 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 1 /4 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cloves