This spiced cranberry sauce is a tasty twist on a classic. With the bright flavors of orange and a hint of warm ginger, it’s perfect for your holiday table!
The best part? You can make it ahead of time! I love serving it with turkey, but it also makes a great topping for breakfast pancakes. Simple and delicious! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star here. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work well too—just don’t thaw them before cooking.
Orange Zest & Juice: The zest brings vibrant flavor. If you’re out of oranges, you can substitute with lemon zest and juice, though it will change the flavor a bit!
Fresh Ginger: I love using fresh ginger for a bright, zesty kick. If you don’t have any, ground ginger can be used, but start with less as it’s more potent.
Spices: Star anise and cinnamon give warmth. If you don’t have star anise, you can skip it or use an extra cinnamon stick. Ground cloves or nutmeg provide great depth, so feel free to include them based on your taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency for Cranberry Sauce?
Getting the right thickness for your sauce is key. Cooking the cranberries until they burst helps, but timing is important too. Here’s how to nail it:
- Keep it simmering—this helps the sauce thicken as it cooks.
- Stir occasionally; this prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t forget, it thickens as it cools! If it seems too runny when hot, don’t worry.
By following these tips, you’ll have a nicely balanced, flavorful cranberry sauce for your holiday dishes. Enjoy! 😊
Spiced Cranberry Sauce With Orange And Ginger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 orange (about 1/3 cup)
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole star anise pods
- Optional: pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry sauce will take about 5 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, plus cooling time. It’s a simple dish that brings big flavor and can be made ahead, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cool water. Make sure to remove any stems or bad cranberries that are soft or shriveled. Set them aside for later.
2. Prepare the Orange Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will create a sweet, citrusy liquid for your sauce.
3. Add the Cranberries and Spices:
Once the mixture is boiling, carefully add the rinsed cranberries, grated ginger, cinnamon stick, and star anise pods to the saucepan. Stir everything together to combine well.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries will start to burst, and the mixture will thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Spice It Up:
Taste your sauce! If you want to add more warmth, sprinkle in a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg during the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust the spices according to your personal taste.
6. Finish and Cool:
Once the sauce has thickened and the cranberries have burst, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the cinnamon stick and star anise pods. Let the sauce cool at room temperature—it will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first.
7. Serve or Store:
Now it’s time to enjoy! You can serve this spiced cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect condiment for turkey, ham, or even on pancakes. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Enjoy this zesty, warming cranberry sauce that’s absolutely perfect for holidays or any special meal! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe! Just add them straight to the pot without thawing. Keep in mind that frozen cranberries might take a little longer to cook and may make the sauce slightly more watery.
How Long Does This Cranberry Sauce Last in the Refrigerator?
This spiced cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Orange Juice and Zest?
If you don’t have oranges, you can substitute with lemon juice and zest for a different citrus flavor, or even apple juice to keep a sweet profile. Just remember that it will change the overall flavor slightly!
