Looking to elevate your holiday dining experience with a vibrant and zesty side dish? Look no further than this delightful Apple Orange Cranberry Sauce! Bursting with the perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and refreshing orange juice, this recipe is not just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors that will leave your guests asking for seconds. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch that serves eight, making it an ideal addition to your festive table. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade sauce that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cool running water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- Peel and dice the apple into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the sauce.
- Cut the orange in half and squeeze out the fresh juice, removing any seeds that might fall into the mixture.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, diced apple, orange juice, sugar, and water.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to help sugar dissolve.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Continue cooking for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens to a desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool at room temperature, where it will continue to thicken slightly.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or storage container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a complementary side dish to holiday meals or roasted meats.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen cranberries can be used in a pinch, but fresh will give you that vibrant taste and color.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 1/4 cup of sugar and add more if needed.
- Experiment with Spices: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg while the sauce simmers. These spices can enhance the holiday spirit in your dish.
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it after it cools. For a chunkier texture, simply mash the cranberries with a fork before serving.
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be made a day or two in advance. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: This sauce isn’t just for turkey! It pairs wonderfully with roasted pork, chicken, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
