Sautéed Apples (AIP, Whole30, 21DSD, Vegan)

In March, I received some blood work results, from my integrative doctor, that indicated my gut is not as healed as we had hopped. After nearly 2 years on the autoimmune protocol, it was a little disappointing, but honestly, I’m proud of how far I’ve come not just in what I’m eating, but also with sleep & stress management & other lifestyle factors. Really, it wasn’t that long ago that my doctor and I were navigating the world of SIBO. So, in the spirit of gut healing, I’ve embarked on not just an AIP reset, but I’m also incorporating variations on a Whole30, a 21 Day Sugar Detox (energy modifications), and the Repairvite protocol, along with some targeted supplementation.

This mishmash of protocols won’t last forever. Restricting so many food items is really not something I recommend longterm or without the guidance of a good functional medicine doctor. I plan to stay very strict for a minimum of 30 days, but hope to stretch most of the principles out for at least 60 days, depending on how I’m feeling both physically & mentally.

The Whole 30, 21DSD and Repairvite protocols all shun the consumption of sugar, even the less refined options like honey & real maple & coconut sugars etc. The 21DSD & Repairvite protocols take it even further & reduce the types and amounts of fruit (and thus the natural sugars).

One of the hardest parts about giving up sugar & many fruits is that I’m not really able to do any baking. I’ve been baking almost my whole life & it’s become almost therapeutic for me to make something from time to time. But AIP/allergen-free baking is expensive & I simply cannot justify making something I can’t consume (don’t even get me started on our lack of freezer space, so making ahead & freezing isn’t an option either). These sautéed apples aren’t quite the same as baking, but they do help fill that baking hole…. They’re a great low-sugar option that allow me to feel like I’m having a bit of a treat while still staying compliant with my chosen protocols. I especially enjoy the sautéed apples warm from the skillet with a drizzle of cold coconut milk.

Sautéed Apples
Yields 1 serving

2 tsp Coconut Oil 
1 Apple (use granny smith if following the 21 Day Sugar Detox)
1/4 tsp Cinnamon 
1/4 tsp Mace (can substitute Nutmeg if not following AIP) 
pinch Sea Salt 

Coconut Milk, for serving 

1. In a small skillet, melt the coconut oil over medium heat
2. Meanwhile, peel, core, slice the apple into 12-ish slices. I prefer to quarter the apple & cut each quarter into thirds. 
3. Arrange the apple slices evenly in the hot pan with the melted coconut oil. Sprinkle with the cinnamon, mace & sea salt. Gently stir to coat the apple slices with the oil and the spices. 
4. Saute the apples for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the apples have slightly softened. 
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of coconut milk & an extra dusting of spices, if desired. 

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