Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe to elevate your holiday table? This cranberry relish with raspberry Jello offers a delightful twist on the traditional cranberry sauce, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful vibrant color. It's the perfect homemade addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, guaranteed to impress your guests. This recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and those just starting their culinary journey. It's a delicious dish that's both healthy and satisfying. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (3-ounce) package raspberry Jello
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
If using frozen cranberries, thaw them completely before proceeding. This ensures even cooking and prevents a watery relish.
Step 2: Simmer the Cranberries and Sugar
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Reduce and Thicken
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Incorporate the Jello and Orange
Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a small bowl, dissolve the raspberry Jello in the warm orange juice, stirring until completely dissolved. Add the dissolved Jello mixture and orange zest to the cranberry mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Pour the cranberry relish into a bowl or airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the relish to set properly. Stir in the chopped nuts (if using) just before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious cranberry relish with your favorite holiday dishes. It pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or even cheese and crackers.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Cranberries are Best: While frozen cranberries work in a pinch, fresh cranberries will deliver a more vibrant flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the amount of sugar to 3/4 cup.
- Get Creative with Nuts: Experiment with different types of nuts like pecans, walnuts, or even almonds. Toasted nuts add a lovely crunch.
- Make it Ahead: This relish tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lime zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zestier flavor.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or a few cloves for a warm, spiced cranberry relish.
- Ginger Zing: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on nut inclusion and serving size)
This recipe provides a healthy dose of antioxidants from the cranberries and a delightful burst of flavor. Remember that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This cranberry relish with raspberry Jello is a simple yet impressive dish that will surely become a staple at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy the process of making this delicious and easy recipe, and happy cooking!