Make-Ahead Stewed Apple and Pear with Cinnamon

A soft snack to make once and keep

Stewed fruit is one of the foods that are often easier in the first week after thyroid surgery, and it's just as good as an everyday snack. Make a batch on Sunday and keep it in the fridge.

Spoon it over Greek yoghurt or porridge, or eat it warm on its own.

Serves 4 · Prep 10 minutes · Cook 15 minutes

What you need

• 3 apples, peeled, cored and chopped
• 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored and chopped
• 125 ml water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A squeeze of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Greek yoghurt, to serve (optional)

How to make it

1. Put the apple, pear, water, cinnamon and lemon juice in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook over low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the fruit is very soft.
3. Mash lightly with a fork for a chunky texture, or blend until smooth if swallowing is sore.
4. Stir in the honey if using. Cool, then store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Notes before you start

• After thyroid surgery, blend it smooth and serve it warm or cool, whichever is more comfortable.
• Strong pain medicines can cause constipation. Water, fruit, vegetables and gentle walking help, and your doctor or pharmacist can suggest more if you need it.
• It's food, so it follows the label's 30 to 60 minute gap after a thyroid tablet, like any meal.

Why it suits a thyroid routine

• Stewed fruit is on the list of foods that are often easier to eat in the first week after thyroid surgery.
• Fruit and fibre are part of a normal balanced diet. Fibre is good for you; just keep your intake steady rather than making big jumps.
• Served with Greek yoghurt, it becomes a snack with protein as well.

This is everyday food, not treatment. Check with your doctor or dietitian about advice for you.