Are you tired of the same old cranberry sauce? This year, ditch the canned stuff and elevate your holiday table with this vibrant, homemade cranberry sauce infused with the rich warmth of red wine. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your guests. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies looking for delicious, healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience cranberry sauce like never before!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup red wine (a dry red like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon works best)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or to taste, depending on cranberry tartness and desired sweetness)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: The Simmer
Combine cranberries, red wine, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon stick, cloves, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Gentle Cooking
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Smooth Operator (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the cooked cranberry mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
Step 4: Cooling and Serving
Remove the cinnamon stick. Let the cranberry sauce cool completely before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully as it cools. This sauce is delicious served at room temperature or chilled.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce Success:
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sugar according to your preference. Some cranberries are naturally tarter than others.
- Wine Selection: Don't be afraid to experiment with different red wines! A fruity Merlot or a slightly sweeter Zinfandel can also create a delicious cranberry sauce.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of freshly grated ginger or a star anise for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
- 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:
- Orange & Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Enhance the citrus notes by adding the juice of ½ an orange along with the zest and a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger.
- Cranberry Sauce with Port Wine: Substitute port wine for red wine for a richer, sweeter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
*Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on sugar and wine used) *Carbohydrates: Around 30-40g *Protein: Around 1g *Fat: Around 0g
This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a delightful addition to any holiday feast or a fantastic accompaniment to roasted meats, poultry, or even cheese and crackers. Enjoy this delicious dish and elevate your culinary game with this simple yet impressive recipe! Happy cooking!