Spicy Cranberry Sauce

Spicy Cranberry Sauce Recipe - A Delicious Condiment from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: This recipe makes 8.

Introduction

Spicy Cranberry Sauce is a delicious and flavorful condiment that adds a zesty kick to any meal. This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with a blend of warm spices to create a unique and tasty sauce that is perfect for the holiday season or any time of year.

History

Cranberry sauce has been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early days of the country. The addition of spices to cranberry sauce is a modern twist on the classic recipe, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ingredients

4 cups of frozen cranberries
2 cups of liquid (can be water or cranberry juice)
1 cup of apple juice
a dash of lemon juice
2 cups of sugar
cinnamon
nutmeg
allspice
star anise
cloves

How to prepare

Dissolve 1 cup of sugar in boiling water or juice.
Add apple and lemon juice.
Place 2 star anise and 4 cloves in a spice bag or tea strainer, then add to the mixture.
Add the cranberries.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Taste and adjust spices and sugar as needed.
Simmer for 15 to 25 minutes, until the cranberries have burst and softened. If necessary, add more boiling water to maintain desired consistency.
Recheck and adjust the level of spices and sugar.
Chill the mixture in a refrigerator. The sauce will thicken upon cooling.

Variations

For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of sugar in the recipe. You can also add orange zest or juice for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to taste and adjust the spices and sugar levels throughout the cooking process to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

- If the sauce is too thick, simply add more boiling water to reach the desired consistency.

- Chill the sauce in the refrigerator before serving to allow it to thicken and develop its full flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Cranberry Sauce alongside roasted turkey, ham, or pork for a festive holiday meal. It also pairs well with cheese platters and charcuterie boards.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the cranberries slowly allows them to burst and soften, creating a thick and flavorful sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh cranberries instead of frozen, and adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Spicy Cranberry Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the sauce in a decorative bowl or jar for a festive touch. Garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy Cranberry Sauce pairs well with roasted meats, cheese, and charcuterie. It also complements savory dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Cranberry Sauce contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Cranberry Sauce contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Spicy Cranberry Sauce is a protein-free recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, making this sauce a nutritious addition to any meal.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Spicy Cranberry Sauce is a low-fat, low-calorie condiment that is rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Summary

Spicy Cranberry Sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its blend of tart cranberries and warm spices, this sauce is sure to become a new holiday favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ways of the kitchen from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients to create dishes that were both delicious and unique.

One day, as I was helping her prepare for a family gathering, she pulled out a recipe for Spicy Cranberry Sauce that she had recently acquired from a friend. I was intrigued by the combination of sweet and spicy flavors, and I eagerly watched as she began to gather the ingredients and explain the steps to me.

We started by simmering fresh cranberries in a pot with sugar, water, and a touch of cinnamon. As the cranberries softened and began to release their juices, my grandmother added in some minced jalapenos and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. The smell that filled the kitchen was incredible - sweet and tangy with a fiery undertone that made my mouth water.

After letting the sauce simmer for a while longer, my grandmother carefully tasted it and adjusted the seasoning until it was just right. She then transferred it to a serving dish and let it cool before serving it alongside our meal. The first bite was a revelation - the tartness of the cranberries was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the sugar, while the heat from the jalapenos lingered on my tongue in the most delightful way.

From that moment on, Spicy Cranberry Sauce became a staple at our family gatherings. It was always a hit with everyone who tried it, and I loved watching their faces light up as they took their first bite. I was proud to have played a part in creating such a delicious dish, and I knew that this recipe would be one that I would treasure for years to come.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding in different spices and experimenting with different levels of heat. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about it and asked for the recipe. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that day in my grandmother's kitchen, learning the art of cooking and discovering the joy of creating something truly special.

Now, as I pass this recipe down to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making it as much as I have. Remember to always cook with love and creativity, and never be afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. Cooking is not just about following a recipe - it is about expressing yourself and sharing your passion with those you love.

So go forth and create, my dear grandchild, and may your Spicy Cranberry Sauce always be a reminder of the joy and love that can be found in the kitchen. Happy cooking!