Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange: A Classic Holiday Side Dish

Table of Contents: Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange

Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange

Remember the joy of holiday meals growing up? The comforting aromas, the lively conversation, and those special dishes that just wouldn’t be the same without them? This Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange recipe is designed to evoke those warm memories and create new ones with your loved ones.

It’s a simple, yet incredibly flavorful addition to any festive table, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Forget the canned stuff – this is a game-changer!

This isn’t just another cranberry sauce recipe; it’s a little burst of sunshine in a jar. The tartness of the cranberries is beautifully balanced by the bright, citrusy notes of fresh orange, and a hint of cinnamon adds a cozy warmth. It’s a fruit sauce that elevates everything it touches, from roasted turkey and ham to even a simple grilled pork chop.

While traditionally associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas, this vibrant sauce is versatile enough to brighten up any meal. It’s perfect for a special family dinner, or even as a surprising accompaniment to a weeknight roast.

Making Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange is a wonderful way to connect with the traditions of cooking and share something truly special. It’s a small effort that yields a huge reward in flavor and enjoyment. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is simply divine! Let’s get started and create a holiday staple that will become a cherished family favorite.

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might find it referred to as Cranberry Orange Relish, Festive Cranberry Sauce, or simply Orange-Infused Cranberries. Variations abound, too. Some people like to add a splash of port wine or Grand Marnier for extra depth of flavor. Others incorporate chopped apples or pears for a different texture.

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or a small piece of grated ginger. Ultimately, this cranberry sauce recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation – feel free to make it your own!

Ingredients: Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange

• * 12 ounces fresh whole cranberries (about 3 cups)
• * 1 cup granulated sugar
• * 1 cup water
• * 1 cinnamon stick
• * 3 or 4 strips fresh orange peel (avoiding the white pith)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and orange peel.
Chef’s Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan will help prevent the cranberries from sticking and burning.

2. Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

3. Simmer and Burst: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, or until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Shortcut: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can gently mash some of the cranberries with a potato masher during the simmering process.

4. Remove Aromatics: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully remove the cinnamon stick and orange peel. Discard these.

5. Cool and Thicken: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely. As it cools, it will thicken considerably. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a tablespoon or two of orange juice while it’s still warm.

6. Chill and Serve: Transfer the cooled Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled alongside your favorite holiday dishes.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor.

* Prep Time: 5 minutes
* Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
* Total Time: 20-25 minutes
* Servings: 4
* Approximate Calories: 120 per serving (estimate)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it focuses on letting the natural flavors of the cranberries and oranges shine. The simple combination of ingredients allows the tartness of the cranberries to be beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the bright citrus notes of the orange. The cinnamon stick adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors without overpowering them.

It’s a fantastic example of easy comfort food for family dinners that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to adjust the sugar to your liking – some people prefer a more tart sauce, while others like it sweeter. Using fresh orange peel is crucial for the best flavor, but be sure to avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter. For a truly special touch, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur after removing the sauce from the heat.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. This makes it a great make-ahead option for the holidays!

For longer storage, you can freeze the cranberry sauce for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating is generally not necessary, as this fruit sauce is best served chilled. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer sauce, you can gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture.

People Also Ask: Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange

How do you make homemade cranberry sauce with orange?

Making Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange is surprisingly simple! You start by combining fresh cranberries, sugar, water, a cinnamon stick, and strips of fresh orange peel in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

Finally, remove the cinnamon stick and orange peel, let it cool, and chill. It’s a far cry from the gelatinous, canned version and offers a vibrant, fresh flavor that elevates any meal. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic holiday side made with real ingredients.

Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries?

You can absolutely use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this cranberry sauce recipe! If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first – simply add them directly to the saucepan with the other ingredients. Frozen cranberries may release a bit more liquid during cooking, so you might need to simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to achieve the desired thickness.

The flavor will be virtually identical whether you use fresh or frozen, so don’t hesitate to use what you have on hand.

What kind of orange zest or juice is best?

For the best flavor in this Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange, use fresh oranges! Navel oranges or Valencia oranges are excellent choices. When using the peel, be sure to avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter. You can use the juice from the same oranges you zested. Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the brightest, most vibrant flavor.

Bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as pronounced.

How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?

Properly stored, Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange will last for 5-7 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Freezing doesn’t significantly affect the flavor or texture, making it a great option for making ahead. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor, before consuming.

Conclusion: Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange

So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying recipe for Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange! I truly believe this is a recipe you’ll return to year after year. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, transforming an ordinary meal into something truly special.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. I’d love to hear about your creations! Please share your photos and comments below – let me know how it turned out and what you thought of the recipe. Happy cooking, and happy holidays!

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