Description
A simple and tangy cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and water with an optional hint of orange zest. This easy-to-make sauce is a perfect holiday side dish that complements turkey and other festive meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sugar syrup: Combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar in a medium saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add cranberries: Stir in the 12 oz of fresh cranberries and return the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Add orange zest: If using, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest to add a bright, citrusy note to the sauce.
- Cool and set: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
- The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference for sweetness or tartness.
- For a twist, you can add warm spices like cinnamon or cloves during simmering.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the cranberries from sticking to the pan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
