In this recipe I use dried fruits to sweeten and thicken the compote instead of sugar. They are a great substitute and also add nutritional value to the dish. People really enjoy it!

Ingredients

10 cups peeled and chopped apples (10 medium apples)
2 cups dried plums (prunes), chopped
1 cup dates, chopped
1½ cups water
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt

Put all ingredients into a medium–large-size pot. Cover and cook on medium heat for 25–30 minutes, or until apples and dried fruit soften, thicken and cook down (adding more water if needed). Serve warm or at room temperature. Makes 6–7 cups.

Health Benefits of Apples

1. Apples are filled with soluble fiber (5 grams)
   -This fiber has been shown to reduce intestinal disorders, including diverticulitis, hemorrhoids and possibly some types of cancer.
   -Helps control insulin levels by releasing sugar slowly into the bloodstream.
   -Cleanses and detoxifies, which helps eliminate heavy metals, such as lead and mercury.
   -Apple pectin helps reduce cholesterol levels by lowering insulin secretion.
2. In two studies researchers found that eating five apples a week lowered the risk for respiratory diseases like asthma.
3. According to Chinese Medicine: Apples strengthen the heart, quench thirst, lubricate the lungs, decrease mucous and increase body fluids.
4. Apple cider vinegar can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
5. Studies indicate that eating apples daily can reduce skin diseases.
6. According to a Brazilian study, eating an apple before a meal helped women lose 33 percent more weight than those who didn’t.
7. An apple has only 50-80 calories and has no fat or sodium.
8. Apples are packed with vitamins C, A , and flavonoids and with smaller amounts of phosphorus, iron,  and calcium.
9. Apples provide a source of potassium which may promote heart health.