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I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
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I remember the first time I tried making cranberry sauce from scratch. It was Thanksgiving at my grandma's house, and I was determined to impress everyone. I found a recipe online, gathered my ingredients, and dove in headfirst. The result? A gloopy, overly sweet mess that tasted nothing like the tart, tangy cranberry sauce I knew and loved. Yeah, it wasn't pretty haha. But don't you worry I am here to help you out, and together we will make an unforgettable cranberry sauce.
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Don't let my initial disaster scare you! Making cranberry sauce is actually incredibly simple, and once you taste the difference between homemade and canned, you'll never go back. The magic lies in using fresh, high-quality cranberries and balancing the sweetness with a touch of acidity. Whether you prefer a smooth, jelly-like consistency or a chunky, rustic sauce, this recipe is easily adaptable to your personal preferences. It is sure to please everyone.
Picture this: the aroma of simmering cranberries filling your kitchen, the vibrant red sauce glistening on your holiday table, and the delighted expressions of your friends and family as they savor each bite. That's the power of homemade cranberry sauce! So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let's create a culinary masterpiece that will become a cherished tradition for years to come. I promise it is easier than you think, and it tastes so good
Required Equipments
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Airtight container
Crafting the Perfect Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Frequently Asked Questions
Crafting the Perfect Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Transform your holiday table with a vibrant, flavorful homemade cranberry sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together tart cranberries, sweet sugar, and a hint of citrus for a side dish that's both festive and unforgettable.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Rinse the Cranberries: Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any cranberries that appear soft or damaged. This step ensures you're starting with the best quality fruit, helping to get ride of unwanted bad stuff.
- Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 cup of orange juice. The orange juice adds a lovely citrus note that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. As the cranberries cook, they will start to pop and release their juices. Continue to stir occasionally.
- Check for Desired Consistency: After simmering for 10-15 minutes, check the consistency of the sauce. It should have thickened slightly and the cranberries should be mostly broken down. If you prefer a smoother sauce, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring frequently. For a chunkier sauce, remove from heat sooner.
- Add Orange Zest (Optional): For an extra burst of citrus flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of orange zest during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a subtle aromatic note that elevates the sauce.
- Cool and Thicken: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. As it cools, the sauce will continue to thicken to its final consistency. Don't worry if it seems a little thin at first; it will firm up as it sits.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to fully set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chilled cranberry sauce as a side dish with your favorite holiday meals. It pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or even vegetarian dishes. Enjoy the vibrant color and delicious flavor of your homemade cranberry sauce!
📝 Notes
- For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of sugar to 1 1/4 cups.
- If you prefer a less tart sauce, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
- Cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 0 g
Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 5 mg
