Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This year, elevate your holiday table with a homemade Craisins cranberry sauce recipe that’s bursting with fresh flavor and vibrant color. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and time, making it the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast – or any time you crave a delicious and healthy sweet and tart treat! It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag Craisins dried cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 1 orange, zested and juiced (about ¼ cup juice)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the Craisins, orange juice, water, sugar (or maple syrup), orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves (if using).
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Reduce and Thicken: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the cranberries have softened. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
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Remove Cinnamon Stick: Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
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Cool and Serve: Let the sauce cool completely. The flavors will meld beautifully as it cools. Serve chilled or at room temperature. This sauce is delicious alongside roasted turkey, ham, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg for a warm, festive twist.
- Citrus Swap: Substitute the orange with grapefruit or lemon for a different flavor profile.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Taste the sauce as it simmers and add more if needed.
- Make it ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen over time.
- Reduce water: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water slightly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe serves approximately 6-8.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-45g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-35g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This Craisins cranberry sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious and convenient way to add a burst of flavor to your holiday table or any meal you desire. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking and share this delightful recipe with your loved ones! It truly is one of the best recipes for a reason.