Are you tired of bland, boring meat dishes that leave your taste buds begging for excitement? Get ready to transform your culinary game with this incredible Cherry Sauce that will elevate even the most ordinary protein into a gourmet masterpiece! This simple yet sophisticated sauce combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors that will have your dinner guests wondering if you've secretly trained in a professional kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cherries thoroughly if using fresh cherries. If using frozen cherries, allow them to partially thaw at room temperature.
- Remove the stems and pit the cherries. If using a cherry pitter, this process will be easier. Alternatively, use a small knife to carefully remove the pits.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the sugar from burning.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the cherries break down and the sauce begins to thicken, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Use the back of a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the cherries to help release their juices and create a more cohesive sauce.
- Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
- Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- For a smoother consistency, optional strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing the cherries to extract maximum flavor.
- Serve warm or at room temperature alongside roasted meats like duck, pork, or chicken. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cherries: Fresh cherries will give the most vibrant flavor, but high-quality frozen cherries work excellently too.
- Pit with Precision: Use a cherry pitter for quick and clean pit removal, or carefully remove pits with a small knife to avoid crushing the fruit.
- Control Your Heat: Simmer gently to prevent sugar from burning and to allow cherries to break down naturally.
- Texture Matters: Gently mash some cherries to release more juice, creating a more complex and rich sauce.
- Seasoning Secret: A pinch of salt is crucial - it enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries and balances the overall flavor profile.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making meal prep a breeze.Pro Tip: For an extra gourmet touch, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of fresh thyme to elevate the sauce's complexity!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
