Tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This homemade cranberry sauce recipe with orange juice and maple syrup offers a vibrant, flavourful, and surprisingly easy alternative. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion where a burst of fruity sweetness is needed, this recipe is a delicious addition to your holiday table or a delightful accompaniment to any roasted meats. It's a simple recipe that even beginner cooks can master, delivering incredible results. This is one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly homemade and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, but highly recommended)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Instructions:
-
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, orange zest (if using), cinnamon, and cloves (if using).
-
Bring to a Boil: Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This is where the magic begins!
-
Simmer and Reduce: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You'll notice the cranberries starting to pop, releasing their beautiful color and intense flavor.
-
Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once cooled, you can transfer it to a serving bowl or airtight container. It’s best served chilled, but it's also delicious at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce:
- Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries will give you the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen cranberries, as they may result in a watery sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more maple syrup. Conversely, for a tart sauce, reduce the maple syrup slightly.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices! A pinch of ginger or allspice would complement the orange and cranberry beautifully.
Variations:
- Spicy Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Cranberry Sauce with Ginger: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger along with the other ingredients for a warming and aromatic twist.
- Orange-infused Cranberry Sauce: Infuse your orange juice by adding orange peel slices to the juice while heating. Strain before adding to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
- Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
This quick dinner idea is a healthy meal addition to your table, offering a delicious dose of antioxidants and vitamins. It’s a delightful, flavorful side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Making your own cranberry sauce is easier than you think and adds a special touch to your meals. Enjoy!