zucchini pie filling
I created this recipe from the zucchini cobbler filling. I wanted it as close to apple pie filling as I could get, and after several botched attempts, I struck pay dirt! My friends are amazed; they can't believe it's zucchini. I would freeze this as you would apple pie filling. I updated this recipe to reflect the new guidelines regarding the canning of squash, which is not deemed safe.
Blue Ribbon Recipe
Can zucchini be used as a pie filling? Yes, it can! This zucchini pie filling had us intrigued. Bernice was right... It does taste just like apple pie filling. The aroma from all the spices (think ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger) will fill your kitchen with the scent of fall. Sliced zucchini cooks down to a soft texture and soaks up the flavor of the warm spices. Sweet and tart, if someone didn't know it was zucchini, they'd guess they're eating an apple filling.
Ingredients
- 24 cups peeled, seeded, and sliced zucchini
- 2 cups lemon juice
- 2 3/4 cups white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
- 4 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
How To Make zucchini pie filling
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Step 1Wash and peel the zucchini. Cut in half, scoop out seeds (a melon baller works great for this or a large metal serving spoon), and then cut into slices about 1/4 inch thick. I try to make them look like apple slices. -
Step 2Place the zucchini into a pot. Add the lemon juice and bring to a boil. Then simmer and cook for 15 - 20 minutes. I like them a greenish color, not quite transparent though.
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Step 3While the zucchini is simmering, combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl. After 20 minutes, add the remaining ingredients.
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Step 4Cook for about 3 - 5 minutes or until thickish looking.
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Step 5Cool and store in a resealable container.
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Step 6Use as you would homemade apple pie filling.
- Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!
