Are you ready to elevate your holiday dining experience? This cranberry sauce recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to your turkey or ham. With a balance of tartness and sweetness, it will impress your guests and add a festive touch to your table. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this sauce is a must-try. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of cranberry sauce, serving about 8 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 cup):
– Calories: 100
– Total Fat: 0g
– Sodium: 0mg
– Carbohydrates: 26g
– Sugars: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the cranberries to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- If desired, stir in cinnamon and orange juice for added flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate until serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves. Fresh cranberries can be replaced with frozen ones if fresh is unavailable.
Serving and Pairings
This cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even spread on sandwiches. It also complements cheese platters and can add a burst of flavor to salads.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 6 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip rinsing the cranberries; it removes any impurities.
- Be careful not to overcook; the sauce should be thick but still have some whole cranberries.
- Adjust sweetness to taste while cooking.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to let the sauce cool before refrigerating.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for different flavors.
- Make the sauce ahead of time for convenience.
- Use a food processor for a smoother texture if desired.
- Serve with a sprig of mint for a fresh touch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking for even consistency.
How long does cranberry sauce last?
Cranberry sauce can last in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and can be frozen for up to 6 months. Make sure to store in an airtight container.
Can I add other fruits to the sauce?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like apples or pears can enhance the flavor and texture of your cranberry sauce.
Is homemade cranberry sauce better than store-bought?
Many find homemade cranberry sauce fresher and more flavorful than store-bought varieties, allowing for customization in sweetness and spice levels.
Can I make cranberry sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare cranberry sauce up to a week in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Conclusion
This cranberry sauce recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances your dining experience. With its easy preparation and ability to be made in advance, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this festive dish and watch it become a favorite at your gatherings!
Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional
- 1/4 cup orange juice optional
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the cranberries to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- If desired, stir in cinnamon and orange juice for added flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate until serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
