Chewy fruit-nut candies
originated in Armenia and were brought to the United States by
immigrants. Firm but delicate, these candies offer a refreshing
change from chocolates.
Applets
- 2 cups dried apples*
1 cup warm water
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 (1/4-ounce) packets unflavored gelatin (or 2 tablespoons)
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 to 2/3 cup finely chopped nuts
Powdered sugar (for rolling)
- Soak dried apples in warm
water 1 hour, then cook slowly in same water until very tender,
stirring to avoid scorching. Put through food mill or sieve.
Cook apple pulp until thick in 2 quart heavy saucepan, stirring
frequently to avoid scorching.
- Mix sugar, cornstarch,
and salt and add to apple pulp. Cook until very thick, stirring
constantly.
- Add gelatin, which has
been softened in the 1/2 cold water. Stir until gelatin is dissolved
and cook until mixture is again thick. Remove from heat. Mix
in nuts. Turn into shallow 9 x 7-inch glass dish that has been
rinsed with cold water. Let stand 24 hours at room temperature,
uncovered.
- Cut candy in rectangular
pieces and roll in powdered sugar. Set pieces on wire rack until
outside is dried (texture should be slightly chewy). Store in
covered container.
Makes about 1 3/4 pounds.
*To make Cotlets, substitute
dried apricots for the dried apples.