Baked Apples

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                            FOOD FUNNY
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Here's a punny one from Rosemary Zwick:

I bet the guy who came up with this beautifully-shaped pasta
made himself a pretty penne.

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                            TODAY'S RECIPE
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I hope it comes as no surprise that baked apples are as popular
in Italy as they are wherever you live. There are many good
baking apples to choose from so pick one that is available in
your area. American readers might try Empire, Jonagold, Rome,
Granny Smith, or Golden Delicious.

Baked Apples (Mele al Forno)

4-6 large baking apples, cored
2-3 Tbs (30-45 ml) butter
2-3 Tbs (30-45 ml) sugar
4-6 cinnamon sticks
6 oz (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
2/3 cup (180 ml) heavy cream
1/4-1/3 cup (60-80 ml) chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds

Arrange the apples in a baking dish and divide the butter, sugar,
and cinnamon sticks among them, placing them in the hollows
left by the cores. Place about 1 cup (250 ml) of water in the
bottom of the pan, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake in
a preheated 375F (190C) oven until the apples have softened,
about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the tops are
lightly browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and
let cool for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the chocolate
and heavy cream in a small pot and melt over low heat, stirring
constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Place the
apples on a serving platter or individual plates, spoon the
chocolate sauce over them, and top with chopped nuts.
Serves 4 to 6.
Received on Fri Sep 10 07:41:24 2010