It’s funny how just last week a friend was asking me for my go-to cranberry sauce recipe, and now here I am, about to share it with you. You know, it’s the little things that make our holiday meals special. This straightforward cranberry sauce uses just four ingredients and is such a breeze to whip up.
To bring it all together, you’ll need fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and a pinch of salt. That’s it! Nothing fancy, just good old-fashioned flavors that pair wonderfully with your roast turkey or whatever feast you’ve got going on.
- Start by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries—get rid of any mushy ones, we don’t want those in there.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of fresh orange juice. Heat that on medium until it’s nice and warm.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, toss in the cranberries and bring it to a boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens up.
- Stir in a pinch of salt—this will really help bring out all those flavors.
After it’s done, let it cool a bit before serving. It’ll thicken as it cools and make a lovely tangy compliment to your holiday table. And honestly, I think what makes this sauce essential each year is the memories it brings—gathering around the table, sharing stories, and just enjoying the season.
So there you have it, a simple recipe that keeps on giving. Happy cooking!
Recipe
Cranberry sauce is a delightful accompaniment to many holiday meals, offering a sweet and tart contrast to rich meats and savory sides. Made from fresh or frozen cranberries, this sauce brings a pop of vibrant color and a burst of flavor to the plate.
Not only is it perfect for holiday celebrations, but it can also be a wonderful addition to everyday meals or even enjoyed as a spread on toast or sandwiches.
The simplicity of making cranberry sauce is one of its many charms. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sauce that’s both delicious and impressive. The combination of cranberries, sugar, and a hint of citrus makes for a wonderfully balanced dish.
You can customize it with your own touches, such as adding spices or other fruits, to suit your personal taste.
To make cranberry sauce, start by combining 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries with one cup of sugar and one cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until most of the cranberries have burst. Stir in the zest and juice of one orange for a citrusy lift, and let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
When making cranberry sauce, remember that it will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little loose right after cooking. You may want to adjust the sugar level to your preference—more for a sweeter sauce, or less if you prefer a tarter taste.
Additionally, for variations, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the depth of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of crunch or texture, a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts can be a delightful addition.
Adjust these tips to align with your culinary style, and enjoy this vibrant sauce as a special addition to your meals.
When it comes to holiday meals, cranberry sauce holds a cherished spot on the table, serving as a vibrant and tangy companion to the richer dishes that often surround it.
This traditional condiment traces its roots back to the early 20th century when it became a staple during Thanksgiving feasts in America. Made from cranberries, sugar, and water, cranberry sauce is one of those rare dishes that beautifully balances sweetness and tanginess, adding a revitalizing contrast to the likes of turkey and stuffing.
Whether you grew up with the jellied version from a can or have always savored homemade renditions, there’s something timeless and comforting about this simple yet flavorful dish. Delve into this recipe to make a cranberry sauce that could easily become a family favorite.
Conclusion
Did you know that during Thanksgiving week, Americans chow down on over 80 million pounds of cranberries? Yup, that little berry packs quite a punch when it comes to holiday feasting! Now, let’s talk about making a super simple cranberry sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.