Looking to add a burst of flavor to your holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner? Look no further than this delightful Cranberry and Cinnamon Relish! Bursting with the vibrant tang of fresh cranberries and the warm spice of cinnamon, this quick and easy recipe will elevate any meal. In just 15 minutes, you can create a stunning condiment that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a festive touch to your table. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats or enjoying it as a refreshing snack, this relish is sure to become a new favorite. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh cranberries under cold running water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar, stirring until sugar begins to dissolve.
- Add fresh cranberries, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves to the sugar-water mixture.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the cranberry mixture, continuing to stir periodically, until most cranberries have burst and the mixture begins to thicken (approximately 10-12 minutes).
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the relish to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, during which it will continue to thicken.
- If using walnuts, gently fold them into the cooled relish for added texture and crunch.
- Transfer the cranberry relish to a serving bowl or storage container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- The relish can be served chilled or at room temperature and pairs excellently with roasted meats, holiday dishes, or as a condiment.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cranberries: Select fresh cranberries that are firm and bright in color. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a tart relish, reduce the sugar slightly to let the natural tang of the cranberries shine through.
- Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon and cloves are classic choices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Let it Chill: For the best flavor, allow the relish to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: This relish can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.
- Serve with Style: For a beautiful presentation, garnish your relish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a few whole cranberries before serving.
- Versatile Pairing: This cranberry relish pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from turkey and ham to cheese platters and even spread on sandwiches. Get creative with how you serve it!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
