Description
A simple and tangy cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and water, with an optional hint of orange zest. This easy-to-make sauce is a classic accompaniment to holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving dinner, providing a bright, sweet, and tart contrast to savory dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare simple syrup: Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Add cranberries: Stir in the fresh cranberries and return the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer cranberries: Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until most of the berries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add orange zest: Stir in 1 tablespoon of orange zest if using to add a fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
- Cool and set: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool completely. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, developing a perfect consistency for serving.
Notes
- This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for convenience; it tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your preferred sweetness level or the tartness of your cranberries.
- For a spiced variation, try adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during the simmering step and removing them before serving.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
