Every holiday table deserves a splash of color and a burst of flavor, and this cranberry orange apple relish delivers both with a playful twist. It’s the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and zesty, guaranteed to elevate your meal from mundane to memorable.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cranberries, orange, and apple creates a harmonious balance of tartness, sweetness, and acidity.
- Quick and easy to prepare, this relish can be made ahead of time, freeing up your holiday schedule.
- Versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, from turkey to tofu.
- The fresh ingredients ensure a vibrant, homemade taste that outshines store-bought versions.
- Adjusting the sweetness or tartness is a breeze, making it customizable to any palate.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange, zested and juiced
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester
- Juicer
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, diced apple, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients. The sugar will start to dissolve as the mixture heats, creating a syrupy base that will help soften the cranberries and apples.
Step 2: Simmer to Perfection
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the apples are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the cranberries and apples are softened, stir in the ground cinnamon and cloves. These spices add warmth and depth to the relish, enhancing its festive flavor profile. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to meld with the fruit.
Step 4: Cool and Thicken
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the relish cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken naturally, reaching the perfect consistency for serving. If you prefer a thicker relish, you can mash it slightly with the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Transfer the cooled relish to a serving bowl or an airtight container. It can be served immediately or refrigerated for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two.
Tips and Tricks
For a smoother relish, you can pulse the cooked mixture in a food processor a few times before cooling. If you’re serving this relish with poultry, consider adding a pinch of black pepper for a subtle kick. To make it ahead, prepare the relish up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The acidity from the orange juice and cranberries acts as a natural preservative, keeping the relish fresh and flavorful.
Recipe Variations
- For a sweeter version, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup or add a tablespoon of honey.
- Incorporate a pear instead of an apple for a different texture and flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and nuttiness.
- For a spicier kick, include a small diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute the orange with lemon for a more tart and tangy relish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just add a couple of extra minutes to the simmering time to ensure they’re fully softened.
How long does this relish last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the relish will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator. The flavors meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two.
Can I make this relish without sugar?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol, or omit it entirely if you prefer a more tart relish. Keep in mind that the sweetness helps balance the tartness of the cranberries and the acidity of the orange juice.
Summary
This cranberry orange apple relish is a vibrant, flavorful addition to any holiday table. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a festive favorite.