Warm Apple Compote

Directions

1. 1
   Place the apples in a saucepan with the sugar (if using).
2. 2
   With a very sharp knife, remove the rind from the lemon (avoiding the bitter pith).
3. 3
   Then mince the rind and add it to the saucepan.
4. 4
   Squeeze the juice of the lemon into the saucepan, add the vanilla bean, cover, and cook over medium heat for half an hour.
5. 5
   If the mixture becomes too dry, add a tablespoon of water, but the idea is to steam the apples in their own juices.
6. 6
   Serve with healthy hot cakes.