Irresistible 4-Ingredient Cranberry Relish is a delightful and uncomplicated dish that brings vibrant flavor to your table. Whether you’re preparing for a festive dinner, family gathering, or simply wanting to add a fresh twist to your meals, this relish shines on its own or pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. I remember the first time I made this for Thanksgiving; the burst of tartness from the cranberries, combined with the warm citrus notes, created such a fabulous addition to our feast. It’s truly a recipe that showcases how simple ingredients can come together to steal the show.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this 4-Ingredient Cranberry Relish is an opportunity to elevate your meals with minimal effort. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a versatile condiment that fits well with turkey, ham, or even spooned over a block of cream cheese as a festive appetizer. Plus, it’s quick to whip up; you can have it ready in under 20 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family.
Best of all, this simple recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
"This relish disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.
How to Make Irresistible 4-Ingredient Cranberry Relish That Steals the Show
Creating this cranberry relish is an effortless process that brings the joy of cooking right into your home. You’ll start by preparing your cranberries, ensuring they are clean and ready to go. Next, combine them with sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and a bit of water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, and you’ll then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. As it cooks, the cranberries will burst, releasing their juices and creating a beautifully thickened relish. Once done, let it cool, and you’ll have a zesty condiment that tantalizes your taste buds.
Ingredients
Gather these items
12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 orange, zest and juice
1/2 cup water
Feel free to experiment with substitutions based on your taste preferences; for instance, a splash of lemon juice can add an interesting twist.
Directions
Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems. Combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
How to Serve Irresistible 4-Ingredient Cranberry Relish That Steals the Show
This cranberry relish is not just for the holiday table. Serve it alongside roasted meats, spread it on sandwiches, or top off festive appetizers for a refreshing kick. For a kid-friendly twist, try mixing a bit of it with yogurt for a tangy snack or dessert. It’s perfect for adding color and zing to any dish!
How to Store
To keep your cranberry relish fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about one week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in small portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips to Make
To ensure your cranberry relish is bursting with flavor, use fresh cranberries for the best results. If you find the relish too tart, feel free to adjust the sugar to your liking. Also, remember that the relish thickens as it cools, so don’t be afraid to let it sit after cooking.
Variations
Get creative with this recipe by adding some chopped nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of cinnamon for spice. You can also try using different citrus fruits like grapefruit or lemon to switch up the flavor profile. Making it during different seasons might inspire you to incorporate other seasonal fruits as well.
FAQs
What can I serve cranberry relish with?
Cranberry relish pairs wonderfully with turkey, pork, or even spread over crackers for an appetizer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This relish keeps well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference, but keep in mind that it may alter the overall flavor balance.
How long does this relish last?
When stored properly in the fridge, it should last about a week.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you love this cranberry relish, you might enjoy some of our other family-friendly recipes. Check out our Bento Cake Recipe for a fun cake idea or try making some Protein Muffins for a healthy breakfast option.
We’d love to see how your baking adventures unfold! Join us on Pinterest for more inspiration.
4-Ingredient Cranberry Relish
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems.
- Combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving.