Is this a good idea? Do you remember family dinners growing up? What is Thanksgiving without cranberry sauce? What is store-bought stuff?Orange cranberry sauce: What, and it was a total game changer. It’s bursting with flavor, so easy to make, and honestly, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, not just during the holidays, but all year round. My kids actually prefer this over the traditional jellied kind now, and I swear, they ask for it with everything! I always make a big batch; it’s perfect to have on hand for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a delicious topping for pancakes. Get ready to say goodbye to bland cranberry sauce forever!
What is orange cranberry sauce?
Think of this orange cranberry sauce as the elevated, grown-up version of your childhood favorite. It’s essentially a homemade sauce, simmered to perfection, that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, sunny flavor of oranges. We’re talking real orange juice, orange zest, and sometimes a little bit of orange segments for that extra pop! The name pretty much says it all, doesn’t it? It’s all about those vibrant, citrusy notes blending beautifully with the classic cranberry flavor. It’s not just a side dish; it’s an experience! It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a touch of warmth from the spices. And trust me, it’s way better than anything you can find in a can. This isn’t just a cranberry sauce; it’s a holiday-maker, a brunch star, and a weeknight dinner delight.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best recipes for a vegetarian meal?flavor is out of this world. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and a hint of spice creates this incredibly complex and delicious taste profile. It’s not just sweet; it’s a symphony of flavors dancing on your tongue. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly simple. Seriously, if you can boil water, you can make this. No complicated techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a total lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you still want something special. And the Cost-? It’s amazing! Fresh cranberries are usually pretty affordable, especially when they’re in season, and the other ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Thirdly, the versatility is amazing. You can serve it with your Thanksgiving turkey, but also as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even a delicious yogurt parfait. It’s wonderful as a glaze for chicken or pork, and it even makes an amazing cocktail mixer! What I love most about this is how easily you can customize it to your taste, adding more or less sugar, spices, or even a splash of your favorite liquor. It’s truly a recipe that keeps on giving. It’s similar to the cranberry sauce my grandma used to make, but this one has a little extra zing, a little extra sunshine. I’ve made a lot of cranberry sauces over the years, but this is the one I keep coming back to.
How do you make orange cranberry sauce?
Quick Overview
Making this orange cranberry sauceIs it a breeze to make cranberries? Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce is thick. What’s the magic of adding orange segments? Can you adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking? Once it’s cooled, it is ready to serve, or you can store it for later use. What are some good recipes that can be made in under 30 minutes? Results are always fantastic. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is just heavenly. How easy is it to make a delicious dish?
Ingredients
What is the main sauce?
- Fresh cranberries are the key! Make sure to rinse them well before you start. I usually buy a couple of extra bags when they’re in season, so I can freeze some for later.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: 1 teaspoon. I find this amount gives the perfect balance of sweet and sour.
- 1 cup fresh orange juice: Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor! The bottled stuff just doesn’t compare.
- If you are going to juicing an orange, make sure to zest it before you eat it. You want the zest to add that extra burst of citrus flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A touch of warmth that adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Pinch of ground cloves: Just a tiny pinch, adds mystery!
For the Orange Segments (Optional, but recommended!):
- 1 large orange, segmented: Adds a pop of fresh flavor and a beautiful texture to the sauce.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. Do you want the sauce to bubble over? Make sure you have enough space in your saucepan. Is it necessary to use a pan that is twice the volume of the ingredients? If the sugar is not incorporated into the bottom of the pan, stir it together to ensure that it won’t stick to the sides.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil and Simmer
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a full boil. Once it’s boiling vigorously, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. This is where the magic happens! Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. You’ll notice it thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it! Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and to distribute the heat evenly. Keep an eye on it, especially as it gets thicker, so it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Add Orange Segments (Optional)
If you’re using the orange segments, add them during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This will allow them to heat through and release some of their juices, but still retain their shape and texture. Adding the segments later ensures they don’t become mushy. Gently fold them into the sauce to incorporate them. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step!
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool.orange cranberry sauce cool slightly. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. You can serve it warm, but it’s even better chilled. Transfer it to a serving bowl and let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t be tempted to skip this step; it makes a huge difference! Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if needed. Sometimes, depending on the oranges and cranberries, you might want to add a touch more sugar.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Serve your Orange cranberry sauce: What and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Oh, the possibilities!orange cranberry sauceIsn’t Thanksgiving just for you?
For Breakfast: Spoon it over your morning pancakes or waffles, or even a toasted English muffin with Cream Cheese! It’s a wonderful alternative to maple syrup, with that extra burst of fruity flavor. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your morning.
For Brunch: It’s a fantastic accompaniment to a brunch spread. Serve it alongside your scrambled eggs, alongside a ham or bacon, or on top of your favorite quiche. It adds a pop of color and a delicious counterpoint to the savory dishes. It’s also fantastic with a glass of mimosa!
As Dessert: Drizzle it over vanilla Ice Cream for a simple yet elegant dessert. Or, serve it with a warm bread pudding, or a baked brie. It’s a wonderful dessert topping with a simple cheesecake! The tartness cuts through the richness, creating the perfect balance.
For Cozy Snacks:I love it with a cheese board! It’s great with cheddar, brie, or even sharp cheddar. What are some good dipping sauces for chicken or pork? What is the perfect way to add a festive touch to your casual gatherings? I’ve been known to sneak a spoonful straight from the jar when I am craving something sweet. My family loves this, so there are rarely any leftovers. Make it to your taste, and enjoy!
How do you make orange cranberry sauce?
What are some of the best tips and tricks to ensure your success.Orange cranberry sauce: what is always a winner!
Cranberry Prep: Always give your cranberries a good rinse before you start. Even though they look clean, you want to remove any dirt or debris. You can use fresh or frozen cranberries in this recipe. If you’re using frozen, don’t thaw them before adding them to the pot. They’ll cook down just fine, and you might even need to add a minute or two to your cooking time.
Sweetness Adjustment: Taste as you go! The sweetness of the sauce will depend on the sweetness of your oranges and your personal preference. You can always add more sugar, but it’s harder to take it away. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar, but you might want to reduce the liquid amount slightly to account for the added moisture.
Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices! A pinch of allspice or a star anise can add a lovely depth of flavor. Just remember, a little goes a long way.
Orange Zest Secrets: When zesting your orange, try to avoid the white pith underneath the zest. The pith can be bitter, and you don’t want that in your sauce. I like to use a microplane grater for the best results.
Consistency Check: Remember that the sauce will thicken as it cools. Don’t overcook it! It should be slightly saucy when you remove it from the heat. If it gets too thick, you can always add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it out.
Taste Testing is Key: Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the sugar and spices to your liking. This is your chance to make it perfect for your palate.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This orange cranberry sauce is even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum deliciousness:
Room Temperature: If you’re serving it soon, you can leave it at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, it’s best to transfer it to the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Refrigerator Storage: Store your sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5-7 days. It’s usually better to let it sit for at least a day, the flavors really deepen in the fridge.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze orange cranberry sauce for up to 2 months. I like to freeze it in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer the frozen sauce to the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you might need to give it a quick stir before serving.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overheat it. You can add a little water or orange juice if it seems too thick after reheating. If you’re serving it cold, it’s ready to go straight from the fridge!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it – my absolute favorite orange cranberry sauce recipe! I hope you love it as much as my family and I do. This recipe is so much more than just a side dish; it’s a flavor explosion that will elevate any meal. It’s perfect with turkey, chicken, pork, and even as a dessert topping. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping up batches all year long. This recipe is also a fantastic base for experimenting. Have fun with the spices, add in some nuts, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen! If you’re looking for other recipes to go with this sauce, try our apple crisp or a classic roasted turkey. I think they would complement each other very nicely. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those cranberries, and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please leave a comment and let me know how it turns out, or share your own favorite twists and variations. Happy cooking!
Orange Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz Fresh Cranberries
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 0.5 cup Water
- 0.25 cup Orange Juice
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or damaged berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and orange juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries and orange zest to the saucepan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm or cold. Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
