This zesty cranberry sauce is a wonderful mix of sweet and tangy. With bright orange and a hint of ginger, it adds a festive touch to any meal!
Making it is a breeze! Just simmer everything together, and you have a tasty side dish that makes your turkey dish really shine. It’s a holiday staple I can’t resist! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential here, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen cranberries work too. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing!
Granulated Sugar: While I use granulated sugar for sweetness, you can replace it with brown sugar for added depth, or use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh is best, but bottled juice can work if you’re short on time. To give extra flavor, zest from the same orange is key. Avoid using pre-packaged zests for the best results!
Fresh Ginger: If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger. However, fresh gives a nicer, spicier flavor. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger instead of the fresh piece.
Spices: Feel free to experiment! You could add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. If star anise isn’t available, skip it but keep the cinnamon for that warm flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Cranberry Sauce Has the Right Texture?
Getting the perfect consistency for your cranberry sauce is all about cooking time. Here are some tips:
- Start with medium heat to dissolve the sugar well, ensuring it’s fully mixed with other ingredients.
- Simmer until you hear the cranberries bursting. This releases pectin, which helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooling process. As it sits, the sauce will thicken more, so allow it to rest before serving.
How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce With Orange And Ginger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise pods
- Optional: pinch of ground cloves or a few whole cloves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spiced cranberry sauce takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare, with around 10-15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for a bit, making it an easy make-ahead treat for your holiday meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, orange juice, and sugar. Stir it gently over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves. This will create a sweet and tangy base for the sauce.
2. Add the Cranberries and Spices:
Now it’s time to add the fresh cranberries, grated ginger, orange zest, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and any optional cloves you choose to include. Stir everything together to mix well.
3. Cook the Sauce:
Bring your mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries start to burst and the sauce thickens up.
4. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Take out the cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and any cloves you’ve used. It’s time for the sauce to cool down to room temperature, where it will thicken even more as it sits.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your spiced cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you like, you can garnish it with some additional orange zest or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for that extra touch of flavor. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite holiday dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can substitute them with frozen cranberries. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the saucepan for cooking!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Yes, you can customize the sweetness based on your taste. Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce, or increase it if you like it sweeter. Just be mindful, as adjustments may slightly affect the sauce’s texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to use it again!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the flavor. You could also add chopped apples or pears for an extra fruity twist in your cranberry sauce!
