Fresh Cranberry Sauce is a must-have accompaniment for holiday meals, bringing a burst of bright, tangy flavor to the table. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this sauce is incredibly simple to prepare, yet it adds a vibrant, homemade touch to your festive feast. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet sugar, and a hint of citrus creates a sauce that balances perfectly with rich, savory dishes like roast turkey or ham. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, you’ll never go back to the canned variety!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Rinse the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any that are soft or damaged.
- Cook the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and orange juice. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add the cranberries, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. If using, add the ground cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, the sauce will continue to thicken. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container.
- Store: Fresh Cranberry Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
This Fresh Cranberry Sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, adding a refreshing contrast to rich holiday dishes. It’s a simple yet essential recipe that’s sure to become a tradition at your holiday table.
