Apples with Essence of Orange

Simple, yet elegantly delicious, this apple dish is fresh and flavorful. To create it, peel and thinly slice 8 - 10 Granny Smith apples. Layer in a deep casserole dish with a sprinkling of sugar (or the sweet herb, stevia) and orange zest. Repeat layers until all the apples are used. In a saucepan, caramelize brown sugar and a small amount of water (pure maple syrup may be used instead of the caramelized sugar). Pour over apple mixture. Bake, covered, in a slow oven until apples are soft and tender. Chill to thicken and then serve in a pretty bowl. Delicious sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon or a sprig of fresh mint. Enjoy!