Get ready to transform your holiday table with the most addictive, mouth-watering relish that will have your guests begging for the recipe! This Cranberry Apricot Slow Cooker Relish is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and warm spices. Imagine a vibrant, glossy relish that takes just minutes to prepare and slow-cooks to perfection, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that screams festive comfort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- Chop dried apricots into small, uniform pieces approximately 1/4-inch in size to ensure even cooking and distribution.
- Place washed cranberries into the slow cooker, creating an even base layer.
- Add chopped dried apricots over the cranberries, distributing them evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt over the fruit mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Pour orange juice slowly and evenly over the entire mixture, helping to dissolve the sugar and spices.
- Gently stir all ingredients using a wooden spoon to combine without crushing the cranberries.
- Cover slow cooker with lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check consistency after 2 hours - the relish should be thick and slightly glossy with cranberries softened but not completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, during which the relish will continue to thicken.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or storage container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select plump, firm cranberries and high-quality dried apricots for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: The slow cooker method is key to developing deep, rich flavors. Resist the urge to increase the heat.
- Stirring Technique: Gently stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but be careful not to crush the cranberries completely.
- Consistency Check: The ideal relish should be thick and glossy, with cranberries softened but still maintaining some texture.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This relish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature as a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, turkey, or as a festive spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
