Pasta With Ham and Apple and a Cider Sauce

An unusual fruity flavoursome pasta dish that is perfect for a lunch or supper. Definitely an effort worthwhile.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  ounce butter
• 1  ounce plain flour
• 1 1⁄4 cups dry cider
• 1 1⁄4 cups  chicken stock
• 2⁄3 cup heavy cream
•  salt & freshly ground black pepper

• For the pasta

• 12  ounces pasta
• 8  ounces ham
• 3  red apples
• 1  ounce butter
• 1  ounce brown sugar
• 2  bell peppers (sliced) (optional)

• To serve

• 2  tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 2  ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

1. To cook the sauce: heat the butter in a saucepan and add the flour. Cook for 2 minutes over a medium heat; do not allow it to colour.
2. Remove from the heat. Slowly begin to add the stock and cider. Stir between each addition to ensure a smooth sauce.
3. When half the liquid is added, return the pan to the heat and slowly bring to the boil. As it begins to thicken add the rest of the liquid. Allow to boil for at least 2 minutes, taste and season.
4. Make the pasta: bring a pan of water to the boil. Cook the pasta for about 12 minutes or until al dente.
5. Slice the ham into finger-length slices and set aside.
6. Core and cut the apples into wedges. Melt the butter in a pan and add the brown sugar, allow it to almost caramelize and fry the apple wedges.
7. Drain the pasta and add to the sauce, add the ham and apples, and peppers. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Reheat thoroughly and serve.
9. If you do need to keep this dish hot for a while add a little more stock or water. Mix in most of the apples and put in an ovenproof dish, cover with tin foil and place into an oven at 275°F.