The mere thought of cranberry sauce brings back memories of family gatherings, where the tart yet sweet aroma filled the air, mingling with roasted turkey and stuffing. Picture a vibrant ruby-red concoction glistening in a bowl, enticing every guest to scoop a generous portion onto their plate. It’s more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors, tradition, and the chaos of holiday feasting.
Remember those frantic Thanksgiving dinners where someone inevitably forgot the cranberry sauce? Panic ensued until I whipped together this quick and easy recipe that saved the day. Now, it’s not just a side dish; it’s the star of the show, adding a zing to every bite and sparking joy among family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry sauce recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes.
- The balance of sweet and tart creates an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- With its bright colors and aroma, it’s sure to be a visual delight on your dinner table.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving but versatile enough to accompany any meal throughout the year.
I remember my cousin Lucy’s face lighting up when I brought this sauce to our holiday dinner last year; she declared it her new favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cranberries: Select plump berries without blemishes for optimal flavor and texture.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetness balances out the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
Orange Zest: Adds a refreshing citrus note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Water: Essential for cooking down the cranberries; using fresh filtered water enhances taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make cranberry sauce
Rinse and Prepare Cranberries: Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cool water. Discard any bruised or wrinkled ones you find lurking in there.
Mix Ingredients in a Pot: Combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated.
Cook Until Bubbly: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while keeping an eye on it. You’ll know it’s ready when you hear those delightful popping sounds from the cranberries.
Simmer for Flavor Development: Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. The aroma will fill your kitchen like an inviting hug.
Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and allow your cranberry sauce to cool at room temperature before serving. It will thicken as it cools—like magic!
This simple yet delightful recipe will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce on turkey, sandwiches, or even just by itself—it’s that good!
You Must Know
- Crafting homemade cranberry sauce is simpler than you think.
- The burst of tartness mixed with sweet flavors creates a festive experience that can elevate any meal.
- Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Timing is everything! Start by rinsing the cranberries, then simmer them with sugar and water until they pop, creating a beautiful sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz it up! Add orange zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use only fresh cranberries for the best flavor; avoid mushy store-bought options.
- Adjust sweetness based on personal preference while tasting as you go.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves for an exciting twist!
A memorable Thanksgiving spent with my family reminds me how cranberry sauce can spark joy and nostalgia. Everyone loved my homemade version!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for my cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them first before cooking.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last in the fridge?
Homemade cranberry sauce stays fresh in the fridge for about two weeks.
What can I serve with my cranberry sauce?
Cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, pork, or even on sandwiches!
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is an essential addition to holiday feasts, combining sweet and tart flavors that elevate your meal. This quick and easy recipe takes just 15 minutes, creating a vibrant ruby-red sauce that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any dinner throughout the year. With fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of orange zest, this homemade delight will leave your guests asking for more.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Rinse fresh cranberries under cold water and discard any damaged ones.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and water.
- Heat over medium until it reaches a gentle boil; listen for popping sounds from the cranberries.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Allow to cool at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Feel free to add cinnamon or a splash of bourbon for added flavor. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
