There are many varieties of commercially grown apples but stick with a very tart specimen for this recipe. Granny Smith apples work wonderfully.

Granny Smith

The Granny Smith apple was named for Mrs. Maria Smith, the woman who is responsible for nurturing the variety into existence. It is now the world’s best-known green apple, available year-round in most every supermarket.

YIELD: 1 QUART

INGREDIENTS

• 3-4 large ripe tart apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger

PREPARATION

1. Combine the apples, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium-low heat until sugar is completely dissolved, and the apples are softened.
2. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice and ginger. Purée in food processor or blender until smooth.
3. Refrigerate until chilled.
4. Pour into a covered container and place in the freezer for 1 hour.
5. Remove from freezer, and stir the frozen crystals into the center of the container with a fork.
6. Return the container to the freezer, and repeat the process every 30-45 minutes, stirring carefully each time, until you have a fully frozen container of crystallized granita.