Cranberry Orange Relish (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry orange relish is a vibrant, zesty condiment that has graced holiday tables for generations. This classic version combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrusy notes of oranges, creating a refreshing contrast to rich meats and savory dishes. The relish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with its jewel-like red cranberries and sunny orange flecks.
Historically, cranberry sauce has been a staple in American cuisine since the early 19th century, often served during Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. The addition of orange zest and juice to the mix is a nod to the culinary traditions that embrace the balance of sweet and tart flavors, enhancing the natural brightness of the cranberries. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra oranges lying around after the holidays—because who doesn’t need a little zest in their life?
Making this relish is a breeze, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Simply toss fresh cranberries, oranges, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon into a food processor, and let it do the work. The result is a chunky, vibrant relish that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “pass the turkey!”
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 orange
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients: 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 1 orange, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Make sure your cranberries are fresh and firm, discarding any that are soft or shriveled.
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water in a colander, removing any debris. This step is crucial as it ensures your relish is clean and free from any unwanted bits.
- Cut the orange in half and juice it, reserving the juice. Then, zest the orange using a microplane or zester, being careful to only remove the bright orange skin and not the bitter white pith.
- In a food processor, combine the rinsed cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. The sugar will help balance the tartness of the cranberries.
- Pulse the mixture in the food processor until it reaches a chunky consistency. Be careful not to over-process; you want some texture in your relish.
- Taste the relish and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter relish, add a little more sugar, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing to combine.
- Transfer the relish to a serving bowl or airtight container. Cover it tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge from seeping in.
- Refrigerate the relish for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Before serving, give the relish a good stir. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
- Enjoy your cranberry orange relish as a delightful accompaniment to turkey, ham, or even as a spread on sandwiches. It’s a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs g: 31
- Protein g: 0
- Fat g: 0
- Sugar g: 24
