Cranberry Relish with Candied Citrus Spark

Ready to jazz up your holiday table with a cranberry relish that’s bursting with flavor? This isn’t your average cranberry sauce! We’re taking this classic side dish to a whole new level with a secret ingredient that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Get ready to discover the magic of Cranberry Relish with Candied Citrus Spark!

Imagine the tartness of cranberries perfectly balanced with the sweet, bright notes of candied orange peel. This cranberry relish is more than just a condiment; it’s a flavor explosion! It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and the addition of that candied citrus spark elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. Are you ready to taste the difference?

This recipe is incredibly versatile, perfect alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or even as a vibrant addition to a cheese board. The combination of sweet, tart, and citrusy flavors makes it a welcome addition to any meal. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on creating this delicious cranberry delight!

Ingredients for Cranberry Relish with Candied Citrus Spark

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing cranberry relish:

12 ounces fresh cranberries: These are the star of the show! Choose plump, firm cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
1 orange, zested and juiced: Fresh orange zest and juice bring a bright citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries and adds sweetness. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
1/4 cup water: Helps to create a simmering sauce and prevents the cranberries from burning.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Pinch of ground cloves: A little goes a long way! Cloves add a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a lovely amber color.
1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped: This is the “secret” ingredient! The candied citrus spark adds a burst of concentrated citrus flavor and a delightful chewy texture.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

Cranberries: While fresh cranberries are ideal, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them slightly before using.
Sugar: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can also use other sweeteners like honey or agave nectar, but be mindful of how they will affect the consistency of the relish.
Maple Syrup: If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey can be used as a substitute.
Candied Orange Peel: If you can’t find candied orange peel, you can make your own or substitute with finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Directions: Making Your Cranberry Masterpiece

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Cranberry Relish with Candied Citrus Spark:

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, water, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. It’s important to use a saucepan that’s large enough to accommodate the cranberries as they burst and release their juices.
Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop and release their pectin, which helps to thicken the relish.
Stir in Maple Syrup: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the maple syrup. The residual heat will help the maple syrup to incorporate smoothly into the relish.
Fold in Candied Orange Peel: Gently fold in the finely chopped candied orange peel. This is where the magic happens! The candied citrus spark adds a burst of sweetness and complex citrus flavor that will elevate your cranberry relish to a whole new level. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the texture of the candied orange peel.
Cool Completely: Let the relish cool completely before serving. As it cools, the flavors will meld and deepen, creating an even more delicious and complex flavor profile. You can transfer the relish to a serving dish or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Success:

Use a Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This will help prevent the relish from sticking and burning.
Stir Regularly: Stirring ensures even cooking and prevents the cranberries from clumping together.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can result in a relish that’s too thick and sticky. Simmer until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to add more or less sugar depending on your preference. Taste the relish as it cooks and adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Relish

Now that you’ve made your delicious cranberry relish, let’s talk about how to make it even better and how to serve it! Here are some expert tips and serving suggestions to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Advanced Preparation Tips:

Make-Ahead: This cranberry relish can be made several days in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve as they meld together in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezing: You can also freeze cranberry relish for longer storage. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Roasted Turkey or Chicken: This cranberry relish is a classic accompaniment to roasted turkey or chicken. The tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the candied orange peel complement the savory flavors of the meat perfectly.
Cheese Board: Add a dollop of cranberry relish to your cheese board for a burst of flavor and color. It pairs especially well with brie, goat cheese, and cheddar.
Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread a thin layer of cranberry relish on sandwiches and wraps for a sweet and tangy kick. It’s delicious with turkey, ham, or even vegetarian fillings.
Pork Tenderloin: Spoon over slices of tender pork loin. The sweet and tart flavors enhance the pork.
As a glaze: Mix with a little orange juice and brush on ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.

Pairing Options:

Brie and Crackers: The creamy richness of brie cheese is perfectly balanced by the tartness of the cranberry relish.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve cranberry relish alongside roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips.
Yogurt or Oatmeal: Add a spoonful of cranberry relish to your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a flavorful and healthy breakfast.

Storage Recommendations:

Store leftover cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Techniques:

If reheating from the refrigerator, simply transfer the cranberry relish to a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally.
If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in a saucepan as described above.

Ready to try this amazing recipe? We can’t wait to hear what you think! Share your feedback and variations in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Relish

Got questions about making cranberry relish? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you perfect your cranberry creation:

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just thaw them slightly before using. They might release a bit more liquid than fresh cranberries, so you may need to simmer the relish for a few extra minutes to thicken it.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Start with the recommended amount and taste as you go. You can always add more sugar if needed, but you can’t take it away.

What if I don’t have candied orange peel?

If you can’t find candied orange peel, you can make your own or substitute with finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a different flavor profile. While it won’t have the same intense citrus flavor, it will still add sweetness and texture to the relish.

Can I make this cranberry relish ahead of time?

Yes, this cranberry relish with candied citrus spark is perfect for making ahead! The flavors actually meld and deepen as it sits in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to a week.

How long does cranberry relish last?

Cranberry relish will last for up to a week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2 months.

Can I freeze cranberry relish?

Yes, you can freeze cranberry relish. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat cranberry relish?

If reheating from the refrigerator, simply transfer the cranberry relish to a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in a saucepan as described above.

Can I add other fruits or spices to the cranberry relish?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different fruits and spices to create your own unique cranberry relish. Some popular additions include apples, pears, ginger, and nutmeg.

Is this cranberry relish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! All of the ingredients are plant-based.

Is this cranberry relish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten.

Can I use a different type of citrus fruit?

While orange is the classic choice, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like mandarin oranges, tangerines, or even grapefruit for a slightly different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as some citrus fruits are more tart than others.

How can I make the candied citrus flavor even more intense?

For a more intense citrus flavor, consider adding a few drops of orange extract or using a higher quality candied orange peel. You can also try toasting the candied orange peel lightly before adding it to the relish to bring out its flavor.

Conclusion: Time to Sparkle with Cranberry Relish!

There you have it – a simple yet sensational Cranberry Relish with Candied Citrus Spark that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends! This recipe is a testament to how a single ingredient swap can transform a classic dish into something truly special. The candied orange peel adds a burst of citrusy sweetness that perfectly complements the tart cranberries, creating a flavor profile that’s both festive and unforgettable.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe and make it your own. Try adding different spices, fruits, or sweeteners to create a cranberry relish that’s perfectly tailored to your taste. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, put on some music, and let your creativity flow.

Now it’s your turn! We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? We can’t wait to hear your feedback and see your culinary creations. Happy cooking!