Are you ready to ditch the canned cranberry sauce this holiday season? This homemade vegan cranberry sauce recipe is unbelievably easy, bursting with fresh cranberry flavor, and far superior to anything you'll find in a can. It's the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table or any festive gathering, and it's surprisingly quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy cooks seeking delicious and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant side dish!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- ¾ cup maple syrup (or agave nectar for a milder flavor)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, water, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
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Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
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Simmer & Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool & 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. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Vegan Cranberry Sauce:
- Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Avoid frozen cranberries unless absolutely necessary.
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of maple syrup can be adjusted to your preference. Taste the sauce as it simmers and add more if needed.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices. A pinch of ginger or cardamom can add a warm, comforting touch.
- Make it Ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen over time!
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of lime juice for a brighter, more tart flavor.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Increase the amount of cinnamon and cloves, or add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer, more intense spiced cranberry sauce.
- Ginger Zing: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a delightful kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on sweetness)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4g
This easy vegan cranberry sauce recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday spread or any meal needing a festive touch. Its vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this homemade, healthy, and delicious side dish! Happy cooking!