| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 120 | 0g | 0g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 29g | 2g | 0g | 0g |
There’s nothing quite like the burst of flavors that comes with this Cranberry Sauce. Growing up in California, my earliest memories of the holidays always included a vibrant cranberry sauce that brightened up our Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. This particular recipe has become a mainstay in my household, beloved by my three adopted children who eagerly anticipate it every year. What makes cranberry sauce so delightful is its versatility. It’s an incredible side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses, from roast turkey to baked ham.
A Health-Conscious Twist
One of the reasons I adore this Cranberry Sauce is because it strikes a perfect balance between taste and health benefits. Fresh cranberries are a powerhouse of nutrients; they are particularly high in antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress. Combining them with orange juice not only enhances the flavor but also adds a healthy dose of Vitamin C. A touch of orange zest (which is optional but highly recommended) gives this sauce an extra layer of complexity without adding any calories.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
As someone who loves to blend classic American comfort with a health-conscious approach, this Cranberry Sauce fits perfectly into my kitchen repertoire. It’s similar to other fruit-based sauces like apple sauce or peach chutney, but it has a unique tartness that makes it stand out. The simplicity of the ingredients — fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and a hint of orange zest — allows each flavor to shine without overpowering the palate.
Whether you’re planning a special holiday feast or just want to add a flavorful twist to a weekday meal, this Cranberry Sauce is a must-try. It pairs beautifully with not just traditional holiday dishes, but also works wonders as a topping for grilled chicken or a spread on a turkey sandwich. If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate this delightful condiment, check out some recipes on [AllRecipes](https://www.allrecipes.com/) or [Food Network](https://www.foodnetwork.com/).
What You’ll Need
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Method
Step One
Rinse the 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cool running water and discard any damaged or soft cranberries.
Step Two
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of orange juice. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
Step Three
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Step Four
Add the rinsed cranberries to the boiling mixture. Return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step Five
Allow the cranberries to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until most of the cranberries have burst. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step Six
If using, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest for added flavor. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool.
Step Seven
Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
