Zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this vibrant Zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce. Combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of sugar and the refreshing burst of orange juice, this sauce is a perfect complement to turkey, pork, or even as a topping for desserts. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this cranberry sauce will become a cherished staple at your festive table. Enjoy it chilled or warmed, and share the joy of homemade goodness with family and friends.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh cranberries
12 ounces (Rinsed and sorted)
sugar
1 cup (Granulated)
orange juice
1 cup (Freshly squeezed or store-bought)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
2
Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4
Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature.
5
Transfer the cooled sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce?
Zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce is a vibrant holiday condiment that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of sugar and the refreshing burst of orange juice.
What are the main ingredients for this cranberry sauce?
The main ingredients are 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of orange juice.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What type of orange juice should I use?
You can use either freshly squeezed orange juice or store-bought orange juice for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook the sauce?
The sauce takes about 10 minutes to simmer after it has reached a boil.
What is the first step in the preparation?
The first step is to rinse and sort the fresh cranberries, then combine them with sugar and orange juice in a saucepan.
How do I know when the sauce is finished cooking?
The sauce is ready when the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
Should I stir the mixture while it boils?
Yes, stir the mixture occasionally while bringing it to a boil to help the sugar dissolve.
Does the sauce need to be refrigerated before serving?
Yes, it should be refrigerated for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld properly.
Can I serve this sauce warm?
Yes, this versatile sauce can be enjoyed either chilled or warmed.
What dishes pair well with Zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce?
It is a perfect complement to turkey, pork, or even as a topping for various desserts.
How should I store leftover cranberry sauce?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, with only three ingredients and simple instructions, this is considered an easy recipe.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Sauces.
Are the cranberries used fresh or frozen?
The recipe specifies using 12 ounces of fresh cranberries that have been rinsed and sorted.
Can I use this as a dessert topping?
Absolutely, the sweet and tart profile makes it an excellent topping for festive desserts.
What makes this sauce 'zesty'?
The inclusion of orange juice provides a refreshing citrus burst that adds a zesty flavor profile.
Do I need to add water to this recipe?
No, the orange juice provides the necessary liquid to cook the cranberries and dissolve the sugar.
What is the recommended heat setting for cooking?
Start with medium heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Is granulated sugar required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
Can I make this sauce for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is a cherished staple for Thanksgiving and other festive holiday tables.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed (cranberries, sugar, and orange juice) are naturally gluten-free.
Does this recipe contain any fat?
Based on the ingredients, this fruit-based sauce is naturally fat-free.
Can I add orange zest to the recipe?
While not explicitly in the ingredients, adding orange zest would enhance the orange flavor further.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 3 main ingredients: fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
Should the cranberries be popped before cooking?
No, the cranberries will naturally pop during the simmering process as they cook.
Is this a vegan-friendly recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains only plant-based ingredients and is vegan-friendly.
What is the serving size?
While the specific serving size in weight is not provided, the recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
Can I use a different juice instead of orange juice?
The recipe is specifically designed for orange juice, but other citrus juices could be substituted for a different flavor.
How long should the sauce cool at room temperature?
The sauce should be allowed to cool to room temperature before being transferred to the refrigerator.