Cranberry Sauce

Everyone needs a good cranberry sauce recipe for the holidays.  This one is a family favorite and can be used for more than just a side dish. Let’s start with the basics. 

Cranberry Sauce

• 1 BAG FRESH CRANBERRIES

• ¾ CUP OF SUGAR OR ¾ CUP HONEY

• ½ CUP WATER

• ½ CUP ORANGE JUICE

• 1 CINNAMON STICK

• 1 ORANGE PEEL

• A PINCH OF SALT

Begin by combining the water, orange juice and sugar (or honey) into a saucepan on medium heat.  Sugar works great but if you’re trying to cut back on sugar you can swap it out for honey or maple syrup.  When swapping honey or maple syrup adjust to your taste at the end.  You can always add more! For the orange juice it usually works out to freshly squeeze 1 large orange.  This is convenient because you want to use the peel in the sauce anyway.  Stir until sugar dissolves.

After those ingredients dissolve, add a pinch of salt, cranberries, orange peel and cinnamon stick.  Cook for about 10 mins and stir until you reach your desired texture.   Your kitchen is going to smell amazing.

Once the desired texture is reached, allow to cool for 30 mins and refrigerate.  You will want to serve the sauce chilled, so it is perfect to make the night before a special dinner. 

This is a foundation recipe for many dishes and appetizers. Check back for appetizers and main courses using cranberry sauce.