Cranberry Ketchup
A vibrant, tart cranberry ketchup with warm spices and a hint of sweetness, perfect for holiday tables, cheese platters, or as a flavorful condiment for meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cranberries, red wine vinegar, and water in a large saucepan.
- Tie allspice berries, cloves, and cinnamon stick together in a piece of cheesecloth and add to the pan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook until cranberries pop.
- Remove spice bag and press cranberries through a strainer with a spoon.
- Discard skins. Return the cranberry pulp to the saucepan.
- Add brown sugar and boil until thick, about 10 minutes.
- Ladle the cranberry ketchup into clean, hot pint jars.
- Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth, then apply new lids and ring bands.
- Process the jars in a simmering water bath for 10 minutes to seal.
- Remove jars from water bath, cool completely, check seals, then label and store in a cool, dark, dry place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the cranberry pulp after straining. You can substitute white vinegar for red wine vinegar if needed, but it will alter the flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier ketchup, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper. This cranberry ketchup can also be adjusted by adding more sugar or spices according to personal taste.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry ketchup is a delightful accompaniment to roasted meats, especially turkey and ham. It also pairs beautifully with Sloppy Joes(Non-Dairy) for a tangy twist. Consider serving it alongside cheese platters or as a condiment for sandwiches to elevate your meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cranberry ketchup in a cool, dark, dry place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use it within a month. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain its consistency and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Ketchup contains roughly 1563 calories, with 15g protein, 373g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (283% of the Daily Value), iron (147% of the Daily Value), and calcium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 636mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cranberry ketchup can be made weeks in advance and stored properly in sealed jars. It actually improves in flavor after sitting for a few days, making it a perfect make-ahead condiment for holiday meals or gatherings.
What can I use cranberry ketchup for?
Cranberry ketchup is versatile; use it as a condiment for burgers, sandwiches, or as a glaze for meats. It also works well as a dipping sauce for appetizers, adding a unique sweet-tart flavor that enhances various dishes.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the ketchup?
Yes, you can easily modify the sweetness to your preference. Start with the suggested amount of brown sugar, then taste as you cook. Add more sugar gradually if you prefer a sweeter ketchup, or reduce it for a tart flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).