Homemade Cranberry Sauce
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
10
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Course
Condiments
-
Cuisine
American
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Description
Homemade Cranberry Sauce starts with fresh cranberries simmered alongside orange juice and zest, water, and a blend of granulated and brown sugars. The cooking process softens and bursts the cranberries, transforming them into a sauce with both texture from berry skins and a glossy, slightly reduced liquid that balances tartness and sweetness. Orange zest adds a fragrant citrus brightness while the brown sugar lends a deeper, molasses hint. This mixture is gently cooled to thicken and set the sauce.
The sauce works well as an accompaniment to poultry or pork dishes, providing a fresh and slightly tangy contrast. It can be served chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.
The recipe accommodates variations like using frozen cranberries, adding warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, and substituting different juices. Finished sauce stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for longer keeps, making it convenient for holiday preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag cranberries rinsed, fresh
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan combine cranberries, water, orange zest, orange juice, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Set over medium-high heat and bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat medium-low.
- Let simmer about 10 - 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries have burst and sauce has reduced slightly.
- Allow mixture to cool about 20 - 30 minutes to thicken up slightly. Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.
Notes
- Frozen cranberries can be used interchangeably with fresh ones.
- The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months; cool it completely before freezing and leave space in the container for expansion.
- Substitute all granulated sugar if brown sugar is unavailable.
- Consider simmering with a cinnamon stick or ground spices for added warmth.
- Replacing water with unsweetened cranberry juice adds more tartness.
- Adding vanilla or chopped nuts after cooling can enrich flavor and texture.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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