Cranberry sauce: the unsung hero of every holiday table. As the turkey takes center stage, this vibrant condiment bursts with flavor, offering a tangy balance to rich dishes. perfectly paired chicken dish The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates an irresistible aroma that wafts through the kitchen, begging to be tasted. flavorful chicken recipe.
I can still remember my first attempt at making homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest. My family gathered around, eyes wide with curiosity and skepticism. The moment they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight—this was no store-bought version but a vibrant creation filled with love (and a bit of zest). delicious dessert option.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This homemade cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Its flavor profile bursts with fresh citrus and tartness that brightens up any meal. With its stunning ruby red color, it adds visual appeal to your holiday spread. Versatile enough for Thanksgiving or breakfast on toast, this recipe will quickly become a favorite! [/info_box]
I recall my grandma’s eyes lighting up when I brought out my homemade cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving dinner; everyone couldn’t get enough.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cranberries: Look for plump, firm cranberries; avoid any that are wrinkled or mushy—they are not invited to this party.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness perfectly; adjust based on your taste preference.
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Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest brings a bright citrus note; it’s like sunshine in your sauce!
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Water: Just enough to help cook the cranberries down into a luscious sauce.
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Cinnamon Stick (optional): A hint of warmth from cinnamon adds depth; feel free to include it if you love spice.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your cooking space by gathering all the ingredients and tools needed before diving into this tasty project.
Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries. Set them aside in a bowl as they await their flavorful transformation.
Combine in a Pot: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and everything starts to bubble invitingly.
Cook Until Bursting: Keep cooking until most cranberries burst open and the mixture thickens—about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can hear those delightful pops!
Add Cinnamon (if using): If you opted for cinnamon, toss in a stick during the final few minutes of cooking. It will infuse your sauce with warm notes that scream cozy holidays.
Cool it Down: Once done, remove from heat and let your homemade cranberry sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish or jar. The flavors deepen as it cools!
Now you have an amazing homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest that will impress even your toughest critics at dinner! Whether served alongside turkey or slathered on toast for breakfast, this will steal the show every time. Enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest is not just easy; it’s a holiday tradition! The vibrant colors and aromas will fill your kitchen, making it the star of your feast. Plus, it’s so much better than the canned stuff—trust me! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing and sorting your cranberries, then simmer them with sugar and orange juice for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures even cooking and helps release those beautiful flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You could also toss in chopped walnuts for crunch or swap out the orange zest for lemon if you’re feeling zesty!
Storing & Reheating
Store your homemade cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] A dash of salt enhances sweetness while balancing flavors perfectly. Allow the sauce to cool before storing; this prevents excess liquid from forming. Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture possible. [/info_box]
Making homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest reminds me of family gatherings during Thanksgiving. Everyone would gather around the table, eagerly waiting to slather this tangy delight on their turkey, and let me tell you—the compliments flowed as freely as the gravy. comforting chicken and gravy.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just thaw and rinse them first.
How long can I store homemade cranberry sauce?
It lasts up to two weeks in the fridge in an airtight container.
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after a couple of days in the fridge.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry sauce with orange zest is a vibrant and tangy condiment that elevates your holiday meals. This homemade recipe combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweet, citrusy notes of orange for a deliciously balanced sauce. Perfect alongside turkey or spread on toast, this easy-to-make dish will quickly become a cherished tradition at your gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cold water, removing any stems or bad berries.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until most cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- If using, add the cinnamon stick during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a serving dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
