Homemade Cranberry Sauce
A delightful and easy homemade cranberry sauce that adds a festive touch to holiday meals, blending sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar Adjust to taste for sweetness.
- 1 cup water
Optional Ingredients
- 1 orange zested and juiced Adds a hint of citrus flavor.
- 1 stick cinnamon For added warmth and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the cranberries: Place the fresh cranberries in a colander and rinse them under cold water, removing any bad ones.
- Prepare the saucepan: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Add cranberries: Once the sugar has dissolved, add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens.
- Add optional flavors: If desired, stir in the orange juice and zest, and add the cinnamon stick for additional warmth and flavor.
- Cool and chill: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool before transferring it to a serving bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve your Homemade Cranberry Sauce alongside your holiday dishes. Enjoy!
Notes
This sauce can be made up to a week in advance; just store it in an airtight container. It pairs well with turkey, ham, and winter vegetables, making it perfect for holiday meals.