Cranberry relish adds a refreshing touch to any holiday table or family meal. It’s vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect complement to roast meats or a delightful tang to your morning toast. This wild burst of flavor is especially cherished during the festive season when cranberries are in abundance, and it’s sure to become a family tradition in your home. I remember the first time I made it; I could hardly believe how easy it was—and how quickly it disappeared at our gathering!
Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry relish isn’t just a condiment; it’s an occasion maker. Its bright color and bold flavor elevate any dish, making it a favorite at Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. This easy recipe is perfect for busy families or new bakers looking for a delightful dish that impresses without spending hours in the kitchen.
"What a wonderful addition to our holiday feast! Everyone loved the tartness combined with the sweetness," shares a satisfied home cook.
This relish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamin C, thanks to the fresh cranberries and orange. Making it at home ensures you can adjust the sweetness to your family’s taste. Say goodbye to store-bought options and hello to fresh, homemade goodness.
How to Make Cranberry Relish
Creating homemade cranberry relish is simple and straightforward, allowing you to genuinely enjoy the process. You’ll first zest and juice the orange, which will create a zingy base. After mixing this with sugar, you’ll put the cranberries in a food processor to finely chop them, adding an attractive texture to the relish. Next, you’ll chop a crisp apple, giving the dish even more flavor and a hint of sweetness. Finally, some finely chopped pecans bring in a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
Once everything is combined, it’s just a matter of letting the relish chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, creating an irresistible topping that can accompany a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Gather these items for your delicious cranberry relish:
1 large orange
1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar (see note)
1 (12 ounce / 340 gram) bag fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
1 large apple
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Feel free to adjust the sugar based on how tart you prefer your relish. You can even substitute the pecans for walnuts if you have dietary preferences or allergies.
Directions
Zest and juice orange. You should have about 1/2 juice.
Mix orange zest and juice with sugar in a large bowl. Set aside.
Place cranberries in food processor, then pulse until finely chopped, scraping down sides as needed. Transfer to orange juice mixture.
Core apple and cut into large chunks. Place chunks in food processor, then pulse until finely chopped, scraping down sides as needed. Transfer to orange juice mixture.
Add nuts to bowl with orange juice mixture, cranberries, and apple. Mix well.
Taste, then add more sugar, if desired.
Cover relish and refrigerate for a couple hours, or until ready to eat. Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cranberry Relish
Cranberry relish is versatile and can elevate many dishes, especially during the holiday season. Serve it alongside your roasted turkey or ham for a delightful contrast. It’s also fantastic as a topping for cream cheese on crackers, making it a great appetizer for gatherings. For a fun twist, try it on pancakes or waffles at breakfast for a festive flair.
You can even get the kids involved by having them help make mini toast bites topped with cream cheese and a dollop of this vibrant relish. It’s a simple way to add a little cheer to your weekend brunch!
How to Store
Storing cranberry relish is easy, making it perfect for meal prep. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week. Just remember the flavors deepen and improve after a day or two, so making it early is a great option. If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge the day before you plan to use it, and it will be ready to enjoy.
Tips to Make
For the best results, choose fresh cranberries that are plump and bright. If you’re unsure about the sugar level, start with less and gradually add to taste; the sweetness of the apple can vary! Make sure to refrigerate your relish for at least a few hours, as this allows the flavors to develop fully.
If you’re looking to elevate the flavor further, add in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch. This extra spice can take your cranberry relish to the next level!
Variations
This recipe welcomes creativity! For a different twist, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or some chopped oranges along with the cranberries. If you want to make it more seasonal, try adding diced pears in the mix.
For dietary needs, this relish can easily be made sugar-free by using an appropriate sweetener of your choice. Those who love a bit of heat can also incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
FAQs
What can I serve cranberry relish with?
Cranberry relish pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or any roasted meats. It can also be enjoyed with cheese and crackers for a delightful snack.
How long can I store cranberry relish?
You can keep cranberry relish in the refrigerator for about a week. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
Can I make cranberry relish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This relish tastes even better when made a day or two before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is cranberry relish healthy?
Yes, cranberry relish is a healthier condiment option, packed with vitamin C and fiber from the cranberries and apple.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you enjoyed learning about cranberry relish, check out our delicious mini bento cake recipe or our scrumptious cottage cheese chocolate mousse for more delightful treats. Baking is a journey, and we’re here to inspire you every step of the way!
Don’t forget to visit us on Pinterest for more cozy recipe ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Cranberry Relish
Ingredients
Method
- Zest and juice the orange. You should have about 1/2 cup juice.
- Mix the orange zest and juice with sugar in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Place cranberries in a food processor, pulse until finely chopped, and transfer to the orange juice mixture.
- Core the apple and cut it into large chunks. Place in the food processor, pulse until finely chopped, and transfer to the orange juice mixture.
- Add the chopped pecans to the bowl with the orange juice mixture, cranberries, and apple. Mix well.
- Taste and add more sugar if desired.
- Cover the relish and refrigerate for a couple of hours, or until ready to eat. Serve cold or at room temperature.