Cumberland Sauce

Cumberland Sauce Recipe - A Unique and Flavorful Sauce from England

Region / culture: England | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Cumberland Sauce is a classic British condiment that is perfect for serving with game meats such as venison, duck, or pheasant. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce is made with red currant jelly, orange juice, ginger, and a hint of spice. It adds a burst of flavor to any dish and is sure to impress your dinner guests.

History

Cumberland Sauce originated in England and is named after the Duke of Cumberland. It is believed to have been created in the 19th century and has since become a popular accompaniment to game meats. The sauce is traditionally served cold and adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

Ingredients

2.5 cups port wine, divided
1 (10.5 oz (298 g)) jar of red currant jelly
3 tbsp light brown sugar
2 tbsp grated orange rind
0.67 cup orange juice
1.5 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 tsp dry mustard
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground red pepper
2.5 tbsp cornstarch

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of wine and the next 8 ingredients to a boil, stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring often, for 20 minutes.
In a separate bowl, stir together the remaining 0.5 cup of wine and cornstarch until smooth.
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the hot mixture and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Boil, stirring constantly, for 1 minute, then allow to cool.
Pour the sauce into sterilized jars, seal them, and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Reheat the sauce before serving.

Variations

Add a splash of port or brandy for a richer flavor.
Substitute lemon juice for the orange juice for a slightly different citrus twist.
Stir in a tablespoon of whole grain mustard for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the sauce constantly while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your taste preferences. Add more for a spicier sauce or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

- For a smoother sauce, you can strain it before pouring it into jars for storage.

- Make sure to use sterilized jars to store the sauce and seal them tightly to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Cumberland Sauce is best served cold alongside roasted or grilled game meats. It can also be used as a glaze for poultry or as a dipping sauce for appetizers.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Cumberland Sauce is to simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and to achieve a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red currant jelly, you can substitute with raspberry or blackberry jelly. You can also use lemon zest instead of orange zest for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cumberland Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. Simply reheat before serving to bring out the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cumberland Sauce in a small dish or jar alongside your main dish. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs or a twist of orange zest for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cumberland Sauce pairs well with game meats such as venison, duck, or pheasant. It also complements roasted pork or chicken dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Cumberland Sauce in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to one month. Reheat before serving by gently warming in a saucepan over low heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cumberland Sauce contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cumberland Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Cumberland Sauce is a low-fat condiment, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

There is minimal protein in Cumberland Sauce, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Cumberland Sauce is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the orange juice and orange rind in the recipe. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A and iron.

Alergens

Cumberland Sauce may contain sulfites from the wine used in the recipe. It is also important to check the ingredients in the red currant jelly for any potential allergens.

Summary

Cumberland Sauce is a low-calorie condiment that is low in fat and protein but provides a good amount of carbohydrates and vitamin C.

Summary

Cumberland Sauce is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to game meats and other dishes. With its tangy and slightly sweet taste, it is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a rainy day in the quaint little village of Cumberland, nestled in the rolling hills of England. I had been visiting a dear friend who lived there, and as luck would have it, I stumbled upon a charming little cookbook in a dusty old shop.

As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Cumberland Sauce. I had never heard of such a thing before, but the ingredients intrigued me - red currant jelly, port wine, orange zest, and a hint of mustard. It sounded like the perfect accompaniment for a roast or game meat, and I knew I had to try it.

I purchased the cookbook and returned home to my own kitchen, eager to recreate the flavors of that rainy afternoon in Cumberland. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions with care and precision.

The scent of orange zest filled the air as I simmered the red currant jelly and port wine, watching as the sauce thickened to a rich, glossy consistency. The hint of mustard added a subtle kick to the sweet and tangy flavors, creating a perfect balance that danced on my taste buds.

When I finally tasted the finished sauce, I was transported back to that rainy day in Cumberland. The flavors were bold and complex, each ingredient shining through in perfect harmony. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the serendipitous discovery that had brought it into my life.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Cumberland Sauce with friends and family, each time recounting the story of how I found it in that charming little cookbook in the village of Cumberland. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a symbol of the joy and connection that good food can bring.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the memories of that rainy day and the delicious sauce that came from it. It reminds me of the power of serendipity, of the unexpected joys that can come from a chance encounter or a simple recipe.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen now, stirring a pot of simmering red currant jelly and port wine, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that brought me to this moment. The memory of finding the recipe for Cumberland Sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in the simplest of moments.