Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Name: Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 orange (zested and juiced); Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Homemade cranberry sauce is a delightful addition to your holiday table, offering a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. This simple recipe elevates your meals and brings a burst of flavor to your dishes. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy dinner, this sauce is sure to impress your guests and add a festive touch to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 orange, zested and juiced
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of cranberry sauce, which is about 8 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1/4 cup): Calories: 100, Total Fat: 0g, Sodium: 0mg, Total Carbohydrates: 26g, Sugars: 24g, Protein: 0g. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar, bringing it to a boil over medium heat.
Add the cranberries to the boiling mixture.
Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
Add orange juice, zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pan.
Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
If desired, fold in chopped nuts for added texture.
Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey for a healthier option. Additionally, consider using lemon zest instead of orange for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

This homemade cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or pork. It also complements cheese platters and can be enjoyed with desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.

Storage and Reheating

Store cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

Not rinsing cranberries properly can lead to a gritty texture.
Using water instead of juice can reduce flavor intensity.
Overcooking can result in a sauce that is too thick.
Not adjusting sweetness to taste can affect overall flavor.
Forgetting to let it cool before serving can alter the taste.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with spices like ginger for a unique twist.
Make it a day ahead for flavors to meld.
Adjust sweetness according to your preference.
For a smoother sauce, blend it after cooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture. Thaw them before cooking for best results.

How long can I store homemade cranberry sauce?

Homemade cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for up to three months.

Can I make cranberry sauce without sugar?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to reduce the sugar content.

Is cranberry sauce gluten-free?

Yes, cranberry sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add other fruits to my cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! You can mix in fruits like apples, pears, or even pineapple for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Homemade cranberry sauce is not only easy to make but also enhances any meal with its bold flavors. With this simple recipe, you can impress your guests and enjoy a classic dish that brings warmth and joy to your table.