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This homemade cranberry sauce is a must-have for your holiday meals. It's perfectly balanced between tart cranberries and the sweetness of sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Simple to make and incredibly flavorful, it's the perfect addition to any festive spread.
INGREDIENTS- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, or use ¾ cup honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener
- Water: ¾ cup, preferably filtered for the best taste
- Cranberries: 12 oz fresh or frozen, the key ingredient for this classic sauce
- Step 1:
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar (or honey/maple syrup) and water. Set over medium heat.
- Step 2:
- Stir to dissolve the sugar completely and bring to a simmer.
- Step 3:
- Add cranberries and bring to a gentle boil. Lower heat and simmer, uncovered, for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4:
- As the cranberries burst, the sauce will thicken. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
- Step 6:
- Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tart!
- This cranberry sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside turkey, chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- For a richer flavor, consider using maple syrup or honey as a sweetener instead of granulated sugar.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash the cranberries or blend the mixture once cooled.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using freshly squeezed orange juice for an added citrusy note in cranberry sauce.
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