Refreshing Cranberry Citrus Chill
This Refreshing Cranberry Citrus Chill is a delightful and vibrant soup that transforms the tartness of fresh cranberries into a refreshing summer treat. Inspired by a recipe from the 2004 cookbook, The Joy of Cranberries: The Tangy Red Treat, this chilled soup combines the sweetness of sugar with the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves, brightened by the tang of fresh lemon juice and aromatic orange zest. It's perfect as a light appetizer or a palate cleanser, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Be sure to plan ahead, as it requires several hours to chill for optimal flavor. Serve it garnished with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy finish.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Water
3 cups (none)
Granulated Sugar
1 1/2 cups (none)
Cinnamon Sticks
2 sticks (none)
Ground Cloves
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Fresh Cranberries
4 cups (washed)
Fresh Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Orange Zest
1 tablespoon (minced)
Sour Cream
1/8 cup (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a 4-quart saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, cinnamon sticks, and ground cloves.
2
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
3
Once boiling, add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan and bring the mixture back to a boil.
4
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the cranberries pop and release their juices.
5
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and minced orange zest.
6
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours.
7
When ready to serve, ladle the chilled soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream.
8
Refrigerate any leftovers and enjoy within a few days.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Cranberry Citrus Chill?
It is a vibrant, chilled soup that transforms tart cranberries into a sweet and refreshing summer treat inspired by the 2004 cookbook, The Joy of Cranberries.
What are the main ingredients in this cranberry soup?
The primary ingredients are fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, fresh lemon juice, and orange zest, with sour cream for serving.
Is this soup served hot or cold?
This recipe is specifically designed to be served chilled, making it a perfect cooling dish for summer.
How long does the soup need to chill?
For optimal flavor and the right temperature, the soup should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, while the recipe calls for fresh cranberries, frozen cranberries can be substituted, though you may need to adjust the simmering time slightly.
How much sugar is required?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
How long should I simmer the cranberries?
The cranberries should be simmered for about 5 minutes, or until they pop and release their juices.
What spices are used in the Refreshing Cranberry Citrus Chill?
The soup is flavored with 2 cinnamon sticks and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves.
When do I add the lemon juice and orange zest?
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and minced orange zest after removing the saucepan from the heat, before the mixture cools to room temperature.
What is the recommended garnish?
Each serving should be topped with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, because it requires several hours of chilling, it is an ideal dish to prepare in advance.
What makes this soup a good palate cleanser?
The combination of tart cranberries, bright lemon juice, and aromatic orange zest creates a refreshing profile that cleanses the palate.
Is this recipe considered a dessert or an appetizer?
It is versatile and can be served as a light appetizer, a palate cleanser, or even a healthy fruit-based dessert.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container.
How long will the soup stay fresh in the fridge?
The soup is best enjoyed within a few days of preparation.
What size saucepan is needed?
A 4-quart saucepan is recommended to accommodate the 3 cups of water and 4 cups of cranberries.
Do I need to wash the cranberries first?
Yes, the cranberries should be washed before they are added to the boiling water mixture.
Is the orange zest minced or grated?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 tablespoon of minced orange zest.
How much lemon juice should I use?
You will need 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Can I omit the sour cream?
Yes, the sour cream is an optional garnish; the soup is delicious on its own if you prefer a dairy-free version.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What should I do if the sugar doesn't dissolve?
Continue stirring occasionally while the water mixture comes to a boil; the heat will help the sugar dissolve completely.
What is the source of this recipe?
It was inspired by 'The Joy of Cranberries: The Tangy Red Treat' cookbook published in 2004.
How much water is used in the base?
The recipe begins with 3 cups of water.
What gives the soup its vibrant color?
The 4 cups of fresh cranberries provide the deep, vibrant red color as they pop and release their juices.
Is this a good recipe for summer parties?
Absolutely, its refreshing and cooling nature makes it perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Should I remove the cinnamon sticks before chilling?
The recipe implies they can stay in during cooling, but you may remove them before serving if you prefer.
Is this soup high in fat?
No, the base of the soup is fat-free; only the optional sour cream garnish adds a small amount of fat.