๐ฌ Applets and Cotlets: A Sweet Nostalgic Treat ๐ฌ
Applets and Cotlets are delightful, old-fashioned candies that evoke a sense of nostalgia with every bite. These candies are reminiscent of Persian Delights and have a unique history, composition, and preparation process.
๐ History:
Applets and Cotlets have a fascinating history. They were created by two Armenian immigrants, Armen Tertsagian and Mark Balaban, who settled in the United States. In 1920, they founded the Liberty Orchards company in Cashmere, Washington, where they began crafting these iconic treats. The inspiration for Applets and Cotlets came from the traditional Middle Eastern confection, Turkish Delight. The candy quickly gained popularity, becoming a beloved confection in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
๐ง Components:
Applets and Cotlets consist of a few key components:
- Fruit Puree: The base of these candies is made from fruit puree, most commonly apricot and apple. This gives them their fruity flavor and chewy texture.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or other nuts are often added for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Sugar: A generous amount of sugar is used to sweeten the candy and give it its characteristic sweetness.
- Gelatin: Gelatin is used to set the candy and provide its chewy consistency.
- Powdered Sugar: This is used to coat the candies and prevent sticking.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
Here’s a simplified recipe to make Applets and Cotlets at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fruit puree (apricot or apple)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup gelatin powder
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the fruit puree and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches 225ยฐF (107ยฐC) on a candy thermometer.
- Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the fruit mixture and stir until fully dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a greased and powdered sugar-dusted square baking dish.
- Let it cool and set at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
- Once set, cut the candy into squares or diamonds and dust with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
โฒ๏ธ Time Needed:
The preparation time for Applets and Cotlets can vary but generally takes around 2-3 hours, including cooking and setting time. However, it’s recommended to let them set overnight for the best results.
Enjoy making and savoring these delightful, emoji-worthy candies! ๐ฌ๐
Sure, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Applets and Cotlets:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 150-200 calories
- Total Fat: 2-4 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 10-15 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 30-35 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
๐ฅ Health Information:
- Moderate Calories: Applets and Cotlets are relatively low in calories per serving, making them a reasonable indulgence.
- Low in Saturated Fat: They contain minimal saturated fat, which is good for heart health.
- Low Sodium: They are low in sodium, which is beneficial for those watching their salt intake.
- Fruit Content: They include fruit puree, providing some vitamins and antioxidants.
- Low in Protein and Fiber: They are not significant sources of protein or dietary fiber.
- High Sugar Content: The main concern is the high sugar content, so they should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to reduce sugar intake.
While Applets and Cotlets can be enjoyed as a sweet treat, it’s essential to consume them in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your sugar intake and overall health.
