Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer! It’s unbelievably easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and adds a touch of elegance to any holiday table or even a simple weeknight dinner. Forget the artificial sweeteners and preservatives; this recipe uses fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a fragrant cinnamon stick for a naturally delicious and festive treat. It's the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it a crowd-pleaser for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, you can adjust based on your preference for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by rinsing the cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove any damaged or bruised berries. Zest the orange using a microplane or fine grater, ensuring you only get the outer colorful part and avoid the bitter white pith. Set aside the orange zest.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Simmering the Sauce
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in the orange zest and mix well. Taste the sauce and add more sugar if needed, depending on your desired sweetness level.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
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 allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to reach its optimal consistency. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce:
- Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries results in a superior flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with less and add more as needed. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooking can result in a mushy sauce. Keep a close eye on it while it simmers.
- Make it Ahead: This cranberry sauce tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for making ahead of time.
Variations:
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Orange-Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger along with the orange zest for a zesty kick.
- Cranberry Sauce with Port Wine: Add 1/4 cup of ruby port wine to the sauce during simmering for a sophisticated touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. Serving size is approximately 1/4 cup.
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-45g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-35g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This easy cranberry sauce recipe is perfect for adding a touch of homemade goodness to your meals. It's a delicious and healthy side dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy!