Apple puree is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, not to mention an ideal ingredient for those who are beginning their transition to solid foods. With the following ten steps, you can effortlessly whip up a batch of this tasty and nutritious puree.

1. Gather your ingredients: You’ll need fresh apples (any variety will do) and water for this basic recipe. Optionally, you may add cinnamon or other sweeteners to enhance the flavor.

2. Wash the apples: Clean your apples thoroughly under cold, running water, making sure to remove any dirt or residues that may be present.

3. Peel and core the apples: To make the puree smooth and free of any hard or fibrous texture, peel off the apple skin with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife. Then, use an apple corer or knife to remove the core.

4. Chop the apples: Cut the peeled and cored apples into small, equally-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

5. Transfer to a pot: Place the chopped apple pieces into a medium-sized saucepan.

6. Add water: Pour enough water into the saucepan so that it covers about 1/4-inch of the apples’ base. This will help give a bit of steam while cooking.

7. Cook the apples: Set your pot over medium heat and cover it with a lid. Allow your apples to simmer gently until they become soft and tender – this should take around 15-20 minutes depending on how small you chopped them.

8. Check apple tenderness: To tell if your apples are ready, poke them with a fork; they should break apart easily.

9. Mash or blend: Once your apples have reached their desired tenderness, remove them from heat and either use a potato masher for a chunkier texture or transfer them to a blender or food processor for smoother results.

10. Optional flavors: If you’d like to add some extra flavor to your apple puree, mix in a pinch of cinnamon or your choice of sweetener, making sure to taste and adjust as needed.

You now have a fresh batch of apple puree that can be enjoyed by itself as a snack, with yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast, or even as an accompaniment to a savory meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.