Prep Apples: Wash, peel, and chop the apples.
2 apples
Cook Apples: Pour enough water into a pot to barely cover the bottom, then add the chopped apples, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar. Stir, set over medium heat, and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
2 teaspoons sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, pinch salt
Reduce Heat: Once it boils, reduce to low and cook until the apples are soft and most of the water has evaporated, stirring every minute or two. Stir more often near the end to prevent scorching. Remove from heat when it's a bit thinner than you'd like: it will thicken as it cools.
Finish Compote: Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning—add more sugar, lemon, salt, or cinnamon until the flavor is right.
2 tsp lemon juice
Store or Chill: Let the compote cool, then use right away or refrigerate in a sealed container.