Get ready to elevate your holiday table with a vibrant and delicious twist! Our Fresh Cranberry Orange and Dried Cherry recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a colorful, homemade cranberry sauce that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Imagine the bright red cranberries bursting with flavor, complemented by the zesty orange and chewy dried cherries—this dish is not just a side; it’s a showstopper! Keep reading to discover how to create this mouthwatering recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange juice
- Dried cherries
- Sugar
- Water
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients: fresh cranberries, orange juice, dried cherries, sugar, and water.
- Rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and orange juice.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and allow the cranberries to simmer, stirring periodically to prevent sticking.
- As the cranberries cook, they will begin to burst and release their natural pectin, creating a thickening sauce.
- Add dried cherries to the simmering mixture, stirring to incorporate and distribute evenly.
- Continue cooking for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce reaches a jam-like consistency and most cranberries have burst.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly, which will allow it to continue thickening.
- Transfer the cranberry-cherry mixture to a clean glass container or serving dish.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
- Serve chilled as a side dish, condiment, or dessert topping.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for firm, bright red cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that are soft or wrinkled.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar. You can start with less and add more to taste as the mixture cooks.
- Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of grated orange zest to the mixture while it simmers.
- Simmer Gently: Keep an eye on the heat level while simmering; too high can cause the mixture to stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally to prevent this.
- Perfect Consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the mixture after it cools slightly for a more refined texture.
- Storage Tips: This cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holidays!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this sauce chilled as a side dish with turkey, as a topping for desserts like cheesecake, or even spread on toast for a delightful breakfast treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 359kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
