This bright and tangy spiced cranberry sauce is a perfect match for any meal. With hints of orange and a touch of ginger, it adds a festive kick to your plate!
Whenever I make this sauce, it’s hard to resist sneaking a spoonful before dinner. It’s just so good! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just simmer, stir, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for a zesty flavor. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, try frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before use.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to this sauce. For a healthier twist, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup—just adjust the amount since they’re sweeter than sugar.
Orange: The zest and juice of an orange brighten the sauce. If citrus isn’t available, lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it may alter the taste slightly.
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a warm spice. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be used, but use less, as it’s more potent.
Cinnamon Stick & Star Anise: These spices add warmth to the flavor. If you don’t have whole spices, you can substitute with ground cinnamon and omit the star anise. Just a pinch will suffice!
How Do I Simmer Cranberry Sauce to the Right Consistency?
Simmering is crucial for getting that perfect texture. It lets the cranberries burst while thickening the sauce. Follow these steps:
- Start by simmering your sugar mixture to dissolve completely before adding the cranberries—this ensures a smooth sauce.
- Let it cook on low for 10-15 minutes. Keep stirring gently, so nothing sticks or burns on the bottom.
- The sauce should thicken naturally; it’ll become syrupy as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a little runny initially!
Just remember, patience is key here for rich flavor and texture!
Spiced Cranberry Sauce With Orange And Ginger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 medium orange (zest and juice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- Optional: pinch of ground cloves or a few whole cloves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients, and 15 minutes to cook the sauce to perfection. After cooking, it will need a little time to cool down, which you can set aside while preparing the rest of your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
First, rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water. As you do this, check for any that are bad or mushy, and discard them. This will ensure that your sauce is fresh and tasty!
2. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the water, granulated sugar, grated ginger, cinnamon stick, star anise, and the optional cloves. Stir well. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring until the sugar completely dissolves into the liquid.
3. Add the Cranberries and Orange:
Once the sugar is dissolved, it’s time to add the star of the show! Pour in the rinsed cranberries, along with the orange zest and juice. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together nicely.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the cranberries start to pop and burst open, releasing their delicious juices. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking to the bottom of the pan, and you’ll see the sauce thicken nicely!
5. Cool and Package:
Once the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully take out the cinnamon stick, star anise, and any cloves you may have used. Let the sauce cool to room temperature—it will thicken further as it cools.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your vibrant cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you like, garnish with a star anise on top for a decorative touch! This spiced cranberry sauce is fantastic when served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy it with turkey, ham, or as a delightful spread on sandwiches!
This sauce is not just delicious; it brings a fantastic burst of flavor that complements many dishes. So, dig in and enjoy the sweet, spicy, and tangy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well, just make sure to thaw them first and give them a good rinse. They might be a little softer, but they’ll still create a delicious sauce.
How Long Will This Cranberry Sauce Last in the Fridge?
This spiced cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness!
Can I Adjust the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce. Start with 3/4 cup of sugar and taste it during cooking; you can always add more if needed!
What Should I Serve With Spiced Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or ham. It also makes a great topping for cream cheese on crackers or as a spread in sandwiches. Get creative and enjoy!