Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish to elevate your holiday meals? Look no further! This cranberry sauce recipe with Grand Marnier adds a sophisticated and delightful twist to the classic Thanksgiving or Christmas staple. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet the vibrant flavor and beautiful color will impress your guests. This homemade cranberry sauce is far superior to canned versions, offering a burst of fresh cranberry flavor enhanced by the subtle orange notes of Grand Marnier. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can be both delicious and impressive. This recipe is perfect for adding to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup Grand Marnier (or other orange liqueur, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, but adds fantastic flavor)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, Grand Marnier, orange zest (if using), and salt.
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Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Simmer and Thicken: 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 to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
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Cool and 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. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce:
- Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries makes a world of difference in both flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen cranberries, as they can result in a watery sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, you can reduce the amount of sugar. Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust accordingly.
- Grand Marnier Alternatives: If you don’t have Grand Marnier, you can substitute with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau or triple sec. Even a splash of orange extract can add a nice touch.
- Make it Ahead: This cranberry sauce is best made a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Variations:
- Spicy Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Apple Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples to the saucepan along with the cranberries for a sweeter, more textured sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
- Sugar: Approximately 25g
This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for impressing friends and family during the holidays or any time you're looking for a festive and flavorful side dish. Enjoy!