Welcome, dear food lovers, to a recipe that celebrates the heartwarming essence of family gatherings and festive moments. This Cranberry Sauce is not just any sauce; it’s a symphony of tart and sweet flavors, complemented by a hint of citrus. Picture a crystal bowl filled with vibrant, glossy cranberry sauce, speckled with orange zest—an irresistible sight at any Thanksgiving table. This recipe embodies creativity and the joy of cooking, as it transforms simple ingredients into a dazzling dish sure to impress your loved ones.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any that are bruised or squishy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. If you like a hint of spice, add the ground cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. As it cools, it will continue to thicken.
- Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Helpful Tips
For a twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a food processor to blend it until smooth after cooking.
Storage Instructions
Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones without thawing. For a reduced-sugar version, substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.
Pairings
This Cranberry Sauce is the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, ham, or pork. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine, like a Riesling, or a festive punch to elevate your holiday feast.
Conclusion
I hope this cranberry sauce recipe brings a burst of flavor and joy to your holiday table. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging Zynahz on Instagram. Your feedback is invaluable, so please leave your thoughts on our website Zynahz. For more delightful recipes and updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking and happy holidays!
