Cranberry Sauce is one of the most beloved holiday staples, brightening any festive table with its rich color and bold flavor. This traditional dish blends tart cranberries with sweetness and aromatic citrus, creating a sauce that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or even spread on warm biscuits. It is simple to prepare, yet it delivers an explosion of freshness that enhances every seasonal meal.
Cranberry Sauce:
Whether enjoyed smooth or chunky, homemade Cranberry Sauce stands out for its natural taste and elegance. It requires minimal ingredients and less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it the ideal make-ahead recipe for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. With beautiful flavor and versatility, it deserves a place in every holiday kitchen.
History:
Cranberries have been used for centuries by Native American tribes for food, medicine, and dye. The first recorded cranberry sauce appeared in New England in the 17th century, created by early settlers using locally harvested cranberries and sweeteners from traded sugar. By the 20th century, cranberry sauce became a traditional Thanksgiving side dish across America. Today, it is celebrated worldwide as a festive complement to savory holiday meals.
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Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water (or orange juice)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Optional add-ins
- cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, nuts, dried fruit
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries and discard any soft or damaged ones.
- Combine sugar and water (or juice) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Add cranberries and return to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add orange zest or optional ingredients.
- Remove from heat and cool completely. The sauce thickens as it cools.
- Transfer to a container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use orange juice instead of water for extra flavor.
- Add maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Stir in nuts or dried fruit for texture.
- Refrigerate for up to one week.
- Sauce thickens more after chilling.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce:
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Do not overcook; cranberries should burst naturally.
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Taste and adjust sugar based on tartness preference.
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Add cinnamon or cloves for a festive holiday twist.
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Make it ahead to save time on busy cooking days.
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Blend for a smooth sauce or leave whole berries for chunkiness.
FAQ’s for Cranberry Sauce:
Can I freeze sauce?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely. No thawing required.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce sugar and add more zest or a splash of lemon.
Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar?
Yes. Adjust sweetness to taste.
How long will it last in the refrigerator?
Up to one week when stored properly.
Conclusion:
Cranberry Sauce is a simple yet impressive seasonal favorite that elevates any holiday spread. With vibrant color, bright flavor, and effortless preparation, it brings tradition and joy to the table. Whether served warm or chilled, smooth or chunky, this homemade version is far superior to canned options and guaranteed to delight everyone.