Applesauce Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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applesauce

[หˆรฆp.ษ™l.sษ”หs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food preparation

Applesauce is a sauce made by cooking and purรฉeing apples. It can be served as a side dish, used in recipes as a sweetener or moisture, and is often enjoyed by children. Applesauce can be smooth or chunky, and it may contain additional spices or ingredients for flavor.

Synonyms

apple puree, apple sauce.

Examples of usage

  • She served applesauce with the pork chops.
  • I used applesauce instead of oil in my cake recipe.
  • Homemade applesauce is healthier than store-bought.
  • Applesauce is often used in baby food.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Applesauce can be used as a healthier substitute for oil or eggs in baking.
  • It's commonly served as a side dish in American cuisine, especially with pork dishes, balancing the meat's savory flavor.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, applesauce is a traditional food for babies transitioning to solid food due to its soft texture.
  • In Jewish culture, applesauce is often paired with matzah during Passover, symbolizing the sweetness of freedom.

Health Benefits

  • Applesauce retains many vitamins found in fresh apples, making it a nutritious snack option.
  • Homemade versions can be low in sugar or sugar-free, offering a healthy alternative to sugary desserts.

Pop Culture

  • Applesauce gained popularity in the 1960s and 70s as a convenient snack for children.
  • It appears in various media as a symbol of comfort, often associated with home-cooked meals.

Origin of 'applesauce'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sauce' comes from the Latin 'salsus,' meaning salted, but applesauce is sweet.
  • In English, the term has been used since the 18th century to refer to a cooked fruit puree.

The word 'applesauce' is of American origin, first appearing in print in the late 19th century. It combines 'apple,' which derives from Old English 'aeppel' and has Germanic roots, with 'sauce,' which comes from the Latin 'salsus,' meaning salted or seasoned. The use of applesauce became more common with the advent of industrialized food production in the United States, particularly in the 20th century. Initially, applesauce was made at home, but it quickly became a staple in grocery stores, benefiting from the popularity of canned food. The dish became associated with childhood, often served as a healthy snack or a side dish accompanying meat. Over time, various flavors and types of applesauce emerged, catering to changing tastes and dietary needs.