Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This year, elevate your holiday table (or any weeknight dinner!) with this vibrant and surprisingly easy homemade dried cranberry sauce. It's bursting with tart-sweet flavor and a delightful chewy texture, making it the perfect complement to everything from roast turkey to grilled chicken. This recipe offers a healthier, more flavorful alternative to store-bought versions, and it's surprisingly quick to make! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or to taste, adjust based on cranberry sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by rinsing the dried cranberries under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This simple step ensures a cleaner, more flavorful sauce.
Simmer the Sauce:
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In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, orange juice, water, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have softened and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust & Serve:
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Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if needed. Some dried cranberries are naturally sweeter than others. You can add more sugar if desired, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra tartness.
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Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
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Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop. The sauce will thicken further as it chills.
Tips for the Best Dried Cranberry Sauce:
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Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a mushy sauce. Keep a close eye on it during simmering and adjust the cooking time based on the desired consistency.
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Adjust sweetness to your liking: The sweetness of dried cranberries can vary, so always taste and adjust the sugar accordingly.
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Get creative with spices: Experiment with other spices like allspice, cloves, or nutmeg for a unique flavor profile.
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Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make it a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to fully blend.
Variations:
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Spicy Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
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Citrus Twist: Use a combination of orange and grapefruit juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
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Boozy Cranberry Sauce: Stir in a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur for an adult twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding about 2 cups of cranberry sauce and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-35g
This easy and delicious dried cranberry sauce is perfect for adding a festive touch to any meal. Its unique texture and vibrant flavor make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!