Each year as we prepare foods for the holiday meals, we try to think through how to make the same old turkey or ham. with a little more zest. Cranberry sauce is one of those condiments that can do just that for any holiday meal. So if you’re looking to add something different this year or just make a healthier version of an old family favorite, give this sauce a try. It couldn’t be simpler to make, and it turns out simply fabulous every time.
CRANBERRY SAUCE
Serves 6–10
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh (or frozen) cranberries
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup (use up to 1/4 cup less for a more bitter cranberry sauce)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- a pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Add cranberries, orange juice and honey to a saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop.
- Bring the cranberry mixture to a low boil, and allow to cook for 5–10 minutes. Make sure you stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and allow to cook another 5–10 minutes, stirring and scraping the sides occasionally. All of the cranberries should burst and the sauce will thicken, but it will thicken quite a bit while cooling as well.
- Turn the heat off and stir in the remaining ingredients (orange zest, cinnamon and nutmeg).
- Allow the sauce to cool for about 15 minutes in the saucepan. Transfer to a glass container or jar, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
NOTE: The cranberry sauce can be reheated as you like, served as a side dish or topping for anything, or used for cooking/baking in other recipes.