Cumberland Sauce

Cook: 15 min

A tangy, sweet Cumberland Sauce featuring currant jelly, raisins, and mustard, perfect for meats or cheese platters. Rich and versatile, it enhances many dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 12 oz. jar currant jelly
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/4 c. raisins
  • 3/4 tsp. dry mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt the jelly in the top of a double boiler.
  2. Beat in all the other ingredients except the raisins and stir until the sauce is thickened.
  3. When the sauce has thickened, stir in the raisins.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Cumberland Sauce, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. If currant jelly is unavailable, grape jelly can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference, especially if you prefer a less sweet sauce. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Cumberland Sauce pairs beautifully with roasted meats, particularly game like venison or duck. It can also complement grilled chicken or pork dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to balance the flavors. For dessert, consider following up with Scrumptious Skillet Cookies or Spicy Chocolate Crackle-Top Cookies to round out the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Cumberland Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a little water or vinegar to loosen it up.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cumberland Sauce contains roughly 140 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 517mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

140 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 4.5g 6% DV
Carbs 18.2g 7% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 13.3g 27% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 516.6mg 22% DV
Potassium 153mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 173mg 58% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 4.6mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 48.5mg 4% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 Cumberland Sauce in advance?

Yes, Cumberland Sauce can be made a day ahead of time. Simply prepare the sauce, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving.

What can I serve with Cumberland Sauce?

Cumberland Sauce is versatile and can be served with various meats, especially roasted or grilled varieties. It works well with turkey, pork, and even fish. Additionally, it can enhance the flavor of vegetarian dishes when paired with hearty grains or roasted vegetables.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this sauce?

While Cumberland Sauce traditionally contains some animal-based ingredients, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces. The core ingredients will remain the same, ensuring a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce that complements various vegetarian recipes.

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).

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