Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This year, elevate your holiday feast with a homemade cranberry sauce that's bursting with fresh flavor and vibrant color. Inspired by the culinary queen herself, Martha Stewart, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It's the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion that calls for a touch of festive deliciousness. This recipe delivers a homemade cranberry sauce that's both quick dinner and a healthy meal option.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Cranberries
Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water and remove any damaged berries. This ensures a smooth sauce without any unpleasant bits.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, and cinnamon (if using). Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: 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 fully develop.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce Success:
- Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries results in a superior flavor and texture compared to frozen cranberries.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like cloves or allspice for a unique flavor profile. A pinch of ginger also adds a nice kick.
- Make it Ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy holiday schedules.
Variations:
- Orange-Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger along with the orange zest.
- Cranberry-Apple Sauce: Add 1 cup of chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) during the simmering process.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Include a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, and nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Carbohydrates: 40-45g Sugar: 35-40g
This delicious and easy cranberry sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to any holiday meal. The homemade cooking process ensures superior quality compared to store-bought options, delivering a truly festive and delicious side dish that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy!