Description
A simple and tangy cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and water, enhanced with optional orange zest. This classic sauce is perfect as a vibrant and flavorful side for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the syrup: Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Add cranberries: Once the syrup is boiling, add the fresh cranberries to the pan and return the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberries simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until most of the berries have burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add orange zest: If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest for added citrus flavor and aroma.
- Cool and thicken: Remove the pan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely; it will continue to thicken as it cools and sets.
Notes
- This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference, using less for tartness or more for sweetness.
- Fresh cranberries are best, but frozen can be used if fresh are unavailable.
- For a smoother texture, the sauce can be blended partially or fully after cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
