Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce
This easy make-ahead cranberry sauce combines fresh cranberries, sugar, and water, simmered until the berries burst. Chopped Granny Smith apple and bright citrus zests and juices are then added, cooking down to create a vibrant, balanced, and flavorful accompaniment. It's a perfect versatile condiment for holiday meals or everyday use, designed to be prepared in advance and served chilled.
Equipment
- 1 Medium Saucepan For simmering the cranberry sauce
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Spatula For stirring and preventing sticking
- 1 Vegetable Peeler For peeling the apple
- 1 Citrus Zester/Grater For grating orange and lemon zest
- 1 Cutting Board and Chef's Knife For chopping the apple
Ingredients
Main
- One 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries cleaned
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 1 Granny Smith apple peeled, cored and chopped
- Grated zest and juice of 1 orange
- Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the cranberries, sugar, and 1 cup of water in a saucepan over low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the skins pop open. Add the apple, zests, and juices and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove from the heat, let cool, and serve chilled.
Notes
For optimal flavor and texture, use fresh, firm cranberries; their natural pectin will help set the sauce beautifully. The citrus zests are crucial here, providing aromatic oils that brighten the overall profile, so ensure you grate only the colored part of the peel. While the recipe specifies low heat, ensure a gentle simmer to prevent scorching the sugar, especially as the sauce thickens. For enhanced complexity, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a whole star anise during the cooking process, removing the latter before chilling. Always allow the sauce to cool completely before serving, as it will thicken further upon chilling. This sauce can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for holiday preparations.