Cranberry Orange Sauce
A vibrant cranberry orange sauce combining tart cranberries with zesty orange and lemon flavors, perfect for holiday meals and pairs well with turkey or ham.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, combine cornstarch, lemon peel, ground cloves, and salt.
- Stir in orange juice and lemon juice until smooth.
- Cook over high heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and thick.
- Stir in cranberry sauce and heat thoroughly, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot or cold over turkey or ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, consider adding more cornstarch, or let it simmer longer to reduce. If you're out of orange juice, a mix of tangerine juice and a splash of lemon can work as a great substitute. This cranberry orange sauce can also complement desserts; consider using it as a topping for pancakes or even as a sweet spread for Pone Bread.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry orange sauce is perfect served warm or cold over turkey or ham, enhancing their flavors beautifully. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or as a condiment for sandwiches. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or with holiday desserts like cheesecake for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or juice to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Orange Sauce contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% 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 use frozen cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in place of cranberry sauce. Simply cook them down with sugar and spices until they burst and thicken. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust sweetness to taste.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cranberry orange sauce vegan, ensure that your cranberry sauce is free from animal products. Most canned versions are vegan, but always check the label. You can also enhance the flavor with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Is there a way to make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes while cooking. This will give the sauce a nice contrast of sweet and heat, making it even more flavorful.
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).