Tasty Tuesday

I made this bread for dinner last night and it was so good! We ate the entire loaf. It was crusty on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. It went perfect with the lentil stew we had.

Awesome Crusty Bread

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups flour

1. Place ingredients in bread machine in the order according to the manufacturer's directions.
2. Use the 1 1/2 lb regular bread cycle.

I made this apple topping to go on top of Belgian waffles. It was wonderful! I think I will make some more up and stick it in the freezer to have on hand. The boys declared that it was the best breakfast ever.

Apple Topping

4 cups sliced peeled cooking apples (about 3 large apples)
1 1/2 cup water, divided
1 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons cornstarch or Clear Jel
1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional (use if apples aren't tart)

1. Place apples in a saucepan with cinnamon, nutmeg, and one cup of the water. Cover, bring to a boil, and simmer for 5 minutes or until apples are tender (but not mushy!).

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Add the remaining half cup of water, along with the lemon juice if using. Whisk until smooth. Add to boiling apples and cook and stir for one minute or until thickened.