Name: Easy Cranberry Relish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Water; 1/2 cup Maple sugar or coconut sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Grated ginger; 1 cup Fresh cranberries; 3/4 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1 cup Golden raisins; 1 teaspoon Orange zest (or more as desired, for garnish)

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Every holiday season, I find myself nostalgic as the aroma of simmering spices fills the air. One dish that always brings back fond memories is my grandmother’s Easy Cranberry Relish. It wasn’t just the taste that captivated me; it was the way each ingredient came together to create a vibrant, tangy delight. I remember helping her in the kitchen, watching in awe as she transformed simple items into a festive masterpiece. This Easy Cranberry Relish has become a staple at our Thanksgiving table, effortlessly brightening up the entire meal.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It requires only a few ingredients, yet the flavor is anything but basic. The blend of fresh cranberries with a touch of sweet maple sugar creates a wonderful balance that perfectly complements savory dishes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this relish is versatile and packed with personality.

As I whip this up, I can’t help but think of all the delightful conversations that have taken place over our holiday meals, where laughter and joy were the main ingredients. This Easy Cranberry Relish is not just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings families together, making it essential for any celebration.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
130 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Grater, Mixing Bowl

The Beauty of This Easy Cranberry Relish

Brightens Up Any Meal

One of the standout features of my Easy Cranberry Relish is its ability to elevate any dish it accompanies. The tartness of the cranberries provides a refreshing contrast to rich foods, making it a perfect sidekick for roasted meats or even a simple cheese platter.

Quick and Easy to Make

With minimal prep time, this relish is a breeze to prepare. In just a matter of minutes, you can have this vibrant dish ready to go. It’s perfect for those last-minute meal preparations or when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthy and Delicious

Not only is this relish bursting with flavor, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties, making this dish as healthy as it is tasty. It’s a guilt-free addition to your holiday spread!

Customization at Its Finest

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. While I love it as is, you can easily tweak it to suit your taste. Want it sweeter? Just add a little more maple sugar. Prefer a spicier kick? A dash of cayenne pepper could do the trick. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Easy Cranberry Relish shines not only during Thanksgiving but also for Christmas, Easter, or even summer barbecues. Its vibrant color and unique flavor make it a delightful addition to any spread.

A Family Tradition

Making this relish has become a cherished tradition in our family. Each time I prepare it, I think of my grandmother and the countless memories we’ve shared around the table. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a way of honoring the past while creating new memories.

What Goes Into Easy Cranberry Relish

The foundation of my Easy Cranberry Relish is built upon harmonious ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring a burst of flavor with every spoonful. The combination of fresh cranberries, maple sugar, and spices creates a delightful melange, making this relish a standout dish.

1 cup water: This is the base for our cooking process, helping to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth texture.
1/2 cup maple sugar or coconut sugar: This adds a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries.
1/2 teaspoon grated ginger: A hint of warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 cup fresh cranberries: The star of the show, these berries add both vibrant color and tangy notes.
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon: This spice brings a comforting warmth, making it perfect for the fall season.
1 cup golden raisins: They contribute a lovely sweetness and chewy texture to the relish.
1 teaspoon orange zest: A burst of citrus that brightens the dish and adds complexity. Feel free to add more for garnish!

How to Cook Easy Cranberry Relish

Cooking up my Easy Cranberry Relish is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow along as I guide you through the simple yet rewarding steps to create this festive treat.

In a small pot, combine maple sugar and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. You’ll notice the syrup starting to bubble; this is when the magic begins!
Once the syrup is ready, add in the fresh cranberries, grated ginger, cinnamon, and golden raisins. Mix well, ensuring all the berries are coated in that sweet syrup.
Let the mixture boil for about twenty minutes. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent any burning on the bottom. You want the water to evaporate, leaving behind a thick, luscious relish.
As the relish cooks, watch for the cranberries to burst open, releasing their juices and creating that vibrant color. This is when you can really start to smell that amazing aroma filling your kitchen!
When most of the liquid has evaporated, remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool down for a few minutes. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Once slightly cooled, top the relish with orange zest. This adds a zesty brightness that makes your Easy Cranberry Relish even more inviting. Serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference!

Things Worth Knowing

Balancing Sweetness: When making your Easy Cranberry Relish, feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the maple sugar.
Texture Tips: Keep an eye on the cooking time. You want the cranberries to burst and break down without turning into complete mush.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to ten days!
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this relish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Cranberry Relish

Creating the perfect Easy Cranberry Relish is both an art and a science. Here are some tips and tricks to help you master this delightful dish.

Storage: Make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy it for up to ten days without losing any flavor.
Freezing: Can you freeze this? Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Pairing: This relish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or even spread on toast for a delightful breakfast.
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Ideas: Serve it as a side dish, a topping for desserts, or even as a dip with crackers during gatherings.
Garnishing: Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil as a garnish for a pop of color and flavor contrast.

How to Serve Easy Cranberry Relish

When it comes to serving my Easy Cranberry Relish, the options are endless. This vibrant dish can enhance a variety of meals and occasions.

Accompany Roasted Turkey: Serve this relish alongside your holiday roast turkey. The tartness will complement the savory flavors beautifully.
With Grilled Chicken: Pair it with grilled chicken for a bright and fresh taste that lightens the dish.
Breakfast Delight: Spread the relish on toast or pancakes for a fruity morning treat that’s sure to impress.
Cheese Platters: Include this relish on a cheese board. It adds a wonderful contrast to rich cheeses and is perfect for entertaining.
During Celebrations: This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering where you want to add a festive touch.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about a week!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the best things about my Easy Cranberry Relish is that it can be made in advance. In fact, I often prepare it a day or two before our holiday gatherings. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully and enhance the taste, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to serve!

This Easy Cranberry Relish can last about seven to ten days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. This makes it a fantastic dish for leftovers and quick meals throughout the week. You can enjoy it on toast, as a side with meats, or even in salads!

Definitely! If you find that you prefer a less sweet version, you can easily adjust the amount of maple sugar to suit your taste. Start with a little less than what the recipe calls for, and add more gradually if you’d like. The key is to taste as you go and find that perfect balance!

Yes, you can freeze my Easy Cranberry Relish! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving!

Conclusion

The Easy Cranberry Relish is a vibrant and flavorful addition to any table, offering the perfect blend of sweetness and tang. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies but also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to gatherings. I encourage you to try making this relish for your next holiday meal or family dinner. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple dish can create lasting memories and elevate your dining experience!