Are you tired of the same old cranberry sauce? This year, elevate your holiday table with a vibrant and zesty cranberry sauce that boasts a delightful kick of ginger. This recipe is surprisingly easy, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies. It's a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving feast, Christmas dinner, or any other special occasion. Get ready to experience cranberry sauce like never before! This recipe is packed with flavor, making it a simple yet impressive dish that will impress your guests and become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, depending on cranberry tartness)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by washing the cranberries thoroughly. Remove any stems or bruised berries.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, grated ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This step helps the flavors develop and enhances the overall taste.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce Success:
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sugar according to your preference. Some cranberries are naturally tarter than others.
- Fresh ginger is best: While ground ginger can be used, freshly grated ginger offers a brighter, more intense flavor.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices. A pinch of cloves or allspice complements the ginger beautifully.
- Make it ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
Variations:
- Orange Zest: Add the zest of one orange for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Cranberry-Orange Sauce: Increase the amount of orange juice to create a more pronounced orange flavor.
- Spicy Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
This easy cranberry sauce recipe with ginger is a fantastic example of homemade cooking. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, offering delicious dishes without sacrificing time or effort. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your individual taste preferences, making it a truly special addition to your holiday celebrations and beyond. Enjoy!