Are you tired of the same old cranberry sauce? This cranberry relish with ginger offers a vibrant, zesty twist on a holiday classic. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and perfect for adding a delightful pop to your Thanksgiving feast or any winter gathering. Forget the canned stuff; this homemade version is far superior! It's the perfect example of delicious dishes made easy, a truly quick dinner idea addition for your celebration or even a weeknight treat. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking and offers healthy meals that are both satisfying and festive. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, depending on cranberry tartness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional, for extra zing)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Prep the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and remove any damaged berries.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, ginger, red onion (if using), and salt.
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Cook the Relish: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the relish has thickened slightly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
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Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the relish cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Once cooled, transfer the relish to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This step enhances the overall flavor profile.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Relish:
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the relish as it simmers and adjust the sugar according to your preference. Some cranberries are naturally tarter than others.
- Ginger intensity: If you love ginger, feel free to add a bit more! You can also experiment with different types of ginger – crystallized ginger adds a lovely textural element.
- Make it ahead: This relish tastes even better the next day (or two!), so feel free to make it well in advance of your meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Cranberry Relish: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Apple Cranberry Relish: Incorporate 1/2 cup of diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well) for added sweetness and texture.
- Citrus Burst: Experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or lemon zest and juice for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact amount of sugar used and the size of the serving. For a 1/4 cup serving:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-35g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-25g
This cranberry relish recipe with ginger is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing and flavorful counterpoint to richer dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or even cheese and crackers for a sophisticated appetizer. It's a recipe that easily adapts to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!