Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Homemade cranberry sauce is a simple and delicious way to brighten up any holiday meal or casual dinner. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a tangy and sweet sauce that perfectly complements turkey, chicken, or cheese plates.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water in a medium saucepan.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added depth, try stirring in a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of brandy before cooling.
- Use fresh orange zest to enhance the citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it lightly after it cools.
Storage
Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently on the stove or serve cold as a condiment—it tastes great both ways.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes, cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance. The flavors often improve after resting in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Frozen cranberries work well and can be added directly to the saucepan without thawing first.
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This homemade cranberry sauce is a simple and classic condiment perfect for holiday meals. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of orange juice, it delivers a tart and sweet flavor that complements turkey, ham, or any festive dish. The sauce is easy to prepare on the stovetop and thickens naturally as the berries burst during cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, making it perfect to serve alongside your meal.
Notes
- For a chunkier sauce, cook the cranberries for a shorter time, around 10 minutes.
- To add a deeper flavor, try adding a cinnamon stick or a splash of brandy during cooking.
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving sauce, cranberry condiment
