Let me share a delightful recipe with you, Cranberry Orange Sauce. It’s a classic side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Imagine the tanginess of cranberries combined with the citrusy sweetness of oranges, simmered together until they create a deliciously thick sauce. Whether you’re serving it with Thanksgiving turkey or alongside a Sunday roast, this sauce is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive in and whip up some homemade cranberry orange sauce!
Captivating Cranberry Orange Sauce
Zesty Cranberry Orange Sauce" is a delightful side dish featuring tart cranberries simmered with citrusy orange juice and zest, creating a vibrant and flavorful sauce.
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Zester
- 1 Citrus Juicer
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Heatproof spoon
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and water.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Once the mixture comes to a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it continue to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar, if desired.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry orange sauce cool slightly before serving.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or jar, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve the cranberry orange sauce alongside your favorite dishes, such as roasted turkey, chicken, or pork.
- Enjoy your homemade “Zesty Cranberry Orange Sauce” as a flavorful and festive addition to your meals!
Notes
- Adjusting Thickness: Cook the cranberry orange mixture longer for a thicker consistency. Remember that the sauce thickens further as it cools.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Add more or less sugar to suit your taste preferences. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust accordingly.
can i make the cranberry orange sauce ahead of time?
Here’s how you can do so!
- Cook the Sauce: Follow the recipe instructions to make the cranberry orange sauce.
- Cool: Allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature.
tips & tricks!
- Balancing Flavors: Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or orange juice as needed.
- Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a blender or immersion blender to puree it before serving. For a chunkier texture, leave the cranberries intact.
- Enhancing Flavor: Amp up the flavor profile by adding spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or cloves, or a splash of vanilla extract.
- Make it Your Own: Get creative with additions like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a splash of liqueur for extra depth and complexity.
how to store the cranberry orange sauce!
Here are a few storage tricks:
- Transfer: Transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container.
- Refrigeration: Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing (Optional): For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: When ready to use, gently reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.