Description
This Cranberry Orange Sauce is a zesty and naturally sweet condiment perfect for holiday dinners or any meal that deserves a tangy twist. Combining fresh orange juice, honey, and cranberries cooked to a thick, luscious consistency, this sauce is quick to prepare and a delightful alternative to store-bought versions.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- â…“ cup orange juice (fresh)
- â…“ cup water
- â…” cup honey (or maple syrup)
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz. cranberries (fresh or previously frozen)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (finely chopped)
- â…› teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Make the Base: Add orange juice, water, and honey to a medium saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. This creates the flavorful base that will meld with the cranberries.
- Add Cranberries and Flavorings: Reduce heat to medium and stir in the cranberries, orange zest, and salt. Continue cooking uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop and soften.
- Let the Sauce Thicken: When most cranberries have burst, remove the saucepan from heat. Mash the remaining whole cranberries with a spoon or potato masher to your desired consistency, whether chunky or smoother.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Chill thoroughly before serving. The sauce will thicken further as it cools and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well; no need to thaw frozen cranberries before cooking.
- Adjust the orange zest quantity depending on how strong you want the citrus flavor.
- This sauce pairs excellently with turkey, chicken, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or yogurt.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.