Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe to elevate your holiday meals or add a zing to your everyday breakfast? Look no further! This cranberry berry sauce recipe is a delightful blend of tart cranberries and sweet berries, creating a flavor explosion that's both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. It's perfect as a side dish for roasted meats, a topping for pancakes, or even a delightful spread for your afternoon tea. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to homemade deliciousness. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries – your choice!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, but adds a lovely aroma)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm spice note)
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and pick over the frozen mixed berries to remove any stems or debris. Zest the orange if using, and set aside.
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Combine everything: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, frozen mixed berries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest (if using), and cinnamon (if using).
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Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir frequently during simmering to avoid burning.
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Mash (optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a potato masher or immersion blender to gently mash some of the berries. Leave some chunks for texture if you prefer.
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Cool and store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before storing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the cranberry berry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Berry Sauce:
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the sauce as it simmers and add more sugar if needed, depending on the sweetness of your berries and your personal preference.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a mushy sauce. Aim for a slightly thickened consistency with some burst cranberries for texture.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Berries: Feel free to use all fresh berries if desired. The cooking time might be slightly shorter.
- Spice it up: Experiment with other spices like cloves or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
Delicious Variations:
- Cranberry Apple Sauce: Add 1 cup of chopped apples to the mix for a delightful twist.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of ginger and nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warmer, spicier sauce.
- Cranberry Orange Sauce with Grand Marnier: Add a tablespoon or two of Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur for an elegant, adult version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
This cranberry berry sauce is a versatile and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you're preparing a special occasion dinner or simply looking for a quick and delicious addition to your breakfast, this easy recipe delivers a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy!