My Mom'S Cranberry Sauce
A sweet-tart cranberry sauce with strawberries, apples, celery, and pecans, perfect as a festive side or dessert accompaniment for family gatherings and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cranberries, sugar, water, and diced apple in a large pot and boil gently until all berries pop, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add strawberry jello, mixing well.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- When cool, add chopped celery and pecans, and mix to combine.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the cranberry sauce, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1 1/2 cups. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free option. Ensure to stir the mixture well after adding the jello to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. It can also be served alongside Aunt Mary'S Spoon Burgers (Sloppy Joes) for a unique twist. For a refreshing dessert, try layering the sauce with whipped cream or yogurt. Serve it in a decorative bowl for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving. Avoid reheating, as this sauce is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mom'S Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 1373 calories, with 11g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Dried cranberries will not work well in this recipe as they are too sweet and lack the necessary moisture. Fresh or frozen cranberries are essential for achieving the right texture and tartness in the sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cranberry sauce vegan, simply ensure that the jello used is plant-based. Some jello brands contain gelatin derived from animal products, so look for vegan jello or opt for agar-agar as a substitute.
Can I add other fruits to the sauce?
Absolutely! You can incorporate diced oranges, pears, or even a handful of blueberries for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that adding too much fruit may alter the consistency, so adjust the water and sugar accordingly.
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).