How to Make Fresh Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, adding a tangy flavor to the holiday feast. Making fresh cranberry sauce at home is not only a delightful way to enhance your holiday table, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavor to your taste. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps of how to make fresh cranberry sauce that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To make fresh cranberry sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound (450g) fresh cranberries
– 1 cup (240ml) water
– 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
1. Wash the cranberries under cold running water and drain them well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth, or transfer it to a blender and puree in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids, as they can cause the blender to overheat.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to taste.
8. Transfer the fresh cranberry sauce to a serving bowl and refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours. This will help the flavors meld together and give the sauce a more intense taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fresh cranberry sauce chilled, alongside roast turkey, ham, or pork. It pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the main dishes, adding a delightful contrast. For an extra touch, garnish the sauce with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of orange zest before serving.
Enjoy making and savoring your homemade fresh cranberry sauce this holiday season!
