How to Make Cranberry Sauce Out of Fresh Cranberries
Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to turkey and other festive dishes, and making it from fresh cranberries is both rewarding and easy. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday meal or simply want to enjoy a homemade condiment, here’s a simple guide on how to make cranberry sauce out of fresh cranberries.
Ingredients
To make cranberry sauce from scratch, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup orange juice (optional, for a tangy flavor)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for depth)
Instructions
1.
Prepare the cranberries:
Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any soft or damaged berries.
2.
Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more sugar or honey.
3.
Simmer the sauce:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4.
Crush the cranberries:
As the sauce simmers, the cranberries will begin to burst. Continue to cook until the cranberries have completely burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water or orange juice to thin it out.
5.
Remove from heat:
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish or jars for storage.
6.
Chill and serve:
If you want to serve the cranberry sauce cold, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will also help the flavors meld together.
Cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries is not only delicious but also a delightful way to showcase the vibrant colors and tangy flavor of this holiday staple. Enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce with your favorite holiday meals and savor the satisfaction of making it yourself.
