Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe: A Festive Favourite for Your Christmas Table

Cranberry sauce is a popular condiment often associated with Christmas Turkey in the UK. It is traditionally made from cranberries, sugar, and water, sometimes with additional flavourings like orange zest, cinnamon, or nutmeg. The sauce can be either smooth or chunky, depending on the preparation method, and its tangy flavour balances the richness of festive dishes such as roast turkey with stuffing, and roast potatoes.

The origin of cranberry sauce is closely tied to the history of cranberries in North America. Cranberries, being native to that region, were used by Indigenous peoples for food, medicine, and even as a natural dye.

Over time, cranberry sauce evolved from a simple boiled cranberry preparation to more elaborate versions, including the addition of other fruits and spices. Cranberry sauce’s combination of sweetness and acidity makes it a versatile accompaniment, enhancing the flavours of a variety of dishes.

Below is a recipe which has been adapted to include mandarins, rather than the traditional oranges.

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sultanas or raisins
• Juice of 2 mandarins, or 1 orange if you prefer

Instructions:

1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or blemished berries.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
3. To the boiling syrup, add the cranberries and simmer for a few minutes. Add the cinnamon stick, sultanas and mandarin juice. Return to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Once the cranberries have softened and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from heat. Discard the cinnamon stick and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
5. You can serve the cranberry sauce warm or cold. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce with a delightful twist of mandarin! This cranberry sauce can make an excellent addition to a Christmas Food Hamper, or served with our Easy Christmas Turkey!