Homemade Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a holiday staple that brings a sweet and tangy flavor to your festive table. This version is easy to make and elevates any meal, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. You’ll find that it pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even on a cheese board.

This recipe transforms fresh cranberries into a vibrant sauce with just a few simple ingredients. You can customize the sweetness and tartness to suit your taste, making it the perfect accompaniment for any palate.

Creating the Perfect Holiday Accompaniment

Cranberry sauce is a beloved addition to holiday meals, offering a delightful contrast to savory dishes like turkey and ham.

The sweet and tangy profile enhances the overall dining experience, making it a must-have on festive tables.

With just a handful of ingredients, this sauce brings a burst of flavor that resonates with both traditionalists and those new to the holiday feast.

Fresh Ingredients Matter

The foundation of any great cranberry sauce lies in the quality of its ingredients.

Choosing fresh cranberries is essential for achieving that vibrant color and distinct taste.

Their natural tartness, combined with the right amount of sugar and a hint of citrus, creates a well-rounded flavor that complements various dishes.

Simple Steps for a Flavorful Sauce

Making cranberry sauce from scratch is easier than many think.

Start by combining fresh cranberries with sugar, water, and orange juice in a saucepan.

As the mixture heats, the cranberries burst, releasing their juices and aromas, transforming into a glossy sauce that practically dances in the pot.

Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

The addition of orange zest and a pinch of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile, providing layers of taste without overwhelming the palate.

Cooling and Serving

Once cooked, letting the cranberry sauce cool is crucial.

This allows it to thicken further, achieving the perfect consistency for serving.

Transfer the sauce to a lovely dish, and it’s ready to impress your guests.

Presenting Your Creation

Presentation can enhance the enjoyment of your homemade sauce.

Consider garnishing with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Serve it in a rustic bowl on a wooden table, surrounded by candles and autumn leaves for a cozy, inviting setup.

Versatile Pairings

This cranberry sauce is not just limited to Thanksgiving feasts.

It can brighten up a cheese board, elevate a simple ham sandwich, or even serve as a topping for desserts.

With its balanced flavors, this sauce adapts beautifully to various cuisines, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

The Ultimate Cranberry Sauce Recipe

This homemade cranberry sauce is bursting with flavor, featuring a delightful balance of sweetness from sugar and a hint of citrus from orange zest. Perfectly cooked cranberries create a thick, glossy sauce that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed and sorted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook the Cranberries: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely. As it cools, it will thicken further. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: 100kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g