Simple Cranberry Sauce Recipe: A iconic Holiday Classic.
Create the perfect cranberry sauce - easy, flavorful, and bursting with vibrant colors. Perfect for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Cranberry sauce is a beloved staple on holiday tables, cherished for its bright and tangy flavor that beautifully complements a variety of dishes. This timeless condiment has a rich history, dating back to the early days of the American colonies when Native Americans first introduced settlers to the cranberry, a vibrant red fruit native to North America.
Traditionally, cranberry sauce is made by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and water until they burst and create a thick, luscious sauce. Many variations have emerged over the years, incorporating ingredients like orange zest, cinnamon, or nuts to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. The sauce's brilliant crimson hue and delightful balance of sweet and tart notes make it an essential accompaniment to roast turkey or ham during Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. However, its versatility extends far beyond the holiday season.
Beyond holiday feasts, cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with a wide array of dishes. It can be spooned over roasted meats, spread on sandwiches, swirled into yogurt, or used as a topping for desserts. Its natural acidity and vibrant flavor profile make it a versatile condiment that adds a burst of freshness to a wide range of culinary creations. Whether served in a classic or creatively reinvented way, cranberry sauce remains a cherished and flavorful tradition on tables around the world.
- 12 oz Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 1 Orange (Zest and Juice)
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- Pinch of Salt
- Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have all the ingredients ready: fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, water, an orange, a cinnamon stick (if desired), and a pinch of salt.
- Step 2: Prepare the Orange
- Zest the orange to get about 1 to 2 teaspoons of orange zest. Set the zest aside.
- Cut the orange in half and juice it to get approximately 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice. Set the juice aside.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, granulated sugar, water, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. If you're using a cinnamon stick, add it to the mixture as well.
- Step 4: Cook Over Medium Heat
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Step 5: Simmer and Stir
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally, and you'll notice the cranberries bursting and the sauce thickening.
- Step 6: Add Orange Juice
After simmering for about 10-12 minutes, add the fresh orange juice to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
- Step 7: Simmer Further
Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cranberry sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Remember that it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Step 8: Remove from Heat
Once the sauce has thickened and the cranberries are soft, remove the saucepan from the heat. Remove the cinnamon stick if you used one.
- Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cranberry sauce to cool in the saucepan for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving bowl.
- Serve the cranberry sauce warm or at room temperature as a delightful accompaniment to your holiday meals.
This homemade cranberry sauce is a classic and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday dinner. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient and delicious side dish for any festive occasion. Enjoy!