A Festive Twist: Spiced Cranberry-Orange Sauce Recipe
By Dr. Cindy Tanzar
As the leaves turn and Thanksgiving approaches, one dish that never fails to steal the spotlight is cranberry sauce. This year, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for a Spiced Cranberry-Orange Sauce—a fresh, vibrant alternative to the overly sweet and often processed canned versions. With its tart and slightly bitter tang, this sauce perfectly complements a variety of holiday dishes while adding a pop of color to your festive table.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Sauce Recipe
This scrumptious sauce not only celebrates the classic flavors of autumn but also incorporates the bright zest and juice of fresh oranges. The warm spices enhance the cranberries’ natural tartness, creating a well-balanced accompaniment for your turkey, stuffing, and more. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepared in a snap!
Servings: Makes 6-8 Servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz package fresh cranberries
- 2/3 cup Swerve Confectioners (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 orange, zested
- 3 tablespoons juice squeezed from the orange
- Pinch of Pink Himalayan salt
Directions
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, Swerve Confectioners, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, orange zest, orange juice, and a pinch of Pink Himalayan salt. This combination will create a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful sauce that captures the essence of fall.
2. Cook the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for approximately 10 minutes. You’ll hear the cranberries popping as they release their natural juices—this is the magic happening!
3. Observe the Transformation
As the sauce simmers, it will thicken and take on a deep red color—absolutely stunning! Once the cranberries have burst and the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
4. Cool and Serve
Let the sauce cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm, or for the best flavor, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is pure deliciousness.
Festive Serving Suggestions
This Spiced Cranberry-Orange Sauce is the perfect side to accompany your Thanksgiving feast. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, and even enhances the flavors of savory sides like stuffing and green beans. Consider serving it in a lovely dish for a beautiful presentation on your holiday table.
Pro Tip:
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a more tart flavor, reduce the amount of Swerve Confectioners. Always remember, you can start with less sweetness and add more if needed!
Make this vibrant and flavorful sauce a staple at your Thanksgiving table this year, and watch it become a beloved tradition for years to come. Enjoy!