Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This homemade cranberry sauce with port wine elevates the classic Thanksgiving side dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the rich, complex flavor of port wine adds a sophisticated touch that your guests will adore. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a delicious and festive addition to your holiday table or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, depending on cranberry tartness)
- 1/2 cup port wine
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water and remove any damaged berries.
Cook the sauce:
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Combine the cranberries, sugar, port wine, orange juice, orange zest, and salt in a medium saucepan.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent burning.
Cool and serve:
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
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Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This step allows the flavors to further develop and enhances the overall taste. The sauce will thicken further as it chills.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce Success:
- Taste and adjust sweetness: Cranberries vary in tartness, so taste the sauce as it simmers and add more sugar if needed. Start with less sugar and add more gradually.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked cranberry sauce can become mushy. Aim for a balance between thick and slightly chunky.
- Make it ahead: This cranberry sauce tastes even better the next day! Making it ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, cloves, or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.
Variations:
- Cranberry Sauce with Orange Liqueur: Substitute Grand Marnier or Cointreau for the port wine for a citrusy twist.
- Cranberry Sauce with Ginger: Add 1-2 tablespoons of finely grated fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Cranberry Sauce: Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the granulated sugar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the exact amount of sugar used. For a general estimate (using 1 cup sugar):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
This homemade cranberry sauce with port wine is a delicious and impressive addition to any meal. It's perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other special occasion. The combination of tart cranberries and rich port wine creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating this delicious dish!