Blueberry Apple Crumble

IMGP5718.jpg

This is an English-style recipe that is not as sweet as traditional American desserts, so if you have a sweet-tooth you may want to adjust the sugar to your taste.  Also, in many parts of the world, fresh cream or custard is poured over desserts as a sort of "gravy" to add richness and moisture.  If you prefer ice-cream or whipped cream that has been sweetened or flavored, they can also be a delicious compliment to this dish.

Ingredients: 1 pint of fresh blueberries, washed and stems removed 1 crisp apple, chopped into large chunks 1 tsp vanilla extract zest from 1/2 lemon 1 Tbs sucanat or brown sugar 1 Tbs flour (optional)

Crumble Topping: 1 cup oats 1/2 cup ground pecans 1/2 cup sucanat or brown sugar 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/2 stick (2 oz) butter

Method: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the dry ingredients for the crumble topping. With your hands, rub the butter into the oat mixture until it resembles bread crumbs.  In a separate bowl, mix together the blueberries, apple, vanilla, lemon zest, 1 tbs sucanat and 1 tbs flour (if desired).  Place in a deep oven-proof baking dish (bowl or oval shaped is preferable).  Cover with the crumble topping and bake at 350 degrees for one hour. Let rest for about 15 minutes before serving.  Pour a little cream or custard over the top before serving.