Easy Cranberry Orange Relish

Cranberry Orange Relish is a classic side dish that adds a burst of bright, tangy flavor to any holiday table. This simple recipe combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of oranges and a hint of warm cinnamon for a delightful accompaniment to roast turkey, ham, or even grilled meats. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to add a pop of flavor to your meals, this Easy Cranberry Orange Relish is sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? While fresh cranberries are preferred for this recipe, you can certainly use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using, and adjust the sugar to taste as frozen cranberries may be slightly sweeter than fresh.
2. How far in advance can I make Cranberry Orange Relish? Cranberry Orange Relish can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing the flavors to meld for a day or two can enhance the taste of the relish. Simply give it a stir before serving.
3. Can I add other ingredients to customize the relish? Absolutely! Cranberry Orange Relish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur for an extra layer of flavor, or toss in some chopped nuts for added texture.
4. Is Cranberry Orange Relish keto-friendly or low-carb? This particular recipe contains sugar, so it may not be suitable for strict keto or low-carb diets. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by using a sugar substitute such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You may need to adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as some sugar substitutes are sweeter than sugar.

Ingredients:

• 1 (12 ounce) package fresh cranberries
• 1 medium navel orange
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any stems or bruised berries. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cut the orange into quarters and remove any seeds. Leave the peel intact.
3. In a food processor, combine the cranberries and orange quarters. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still slightly chunky.
4. Transfer the cranberry-orange mixture to a bowl and stir in the sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, give the relish a good stir and taste for sweetness, adding more sugar if desired.
7. Serve chilled as a festive side dish alongside your favorite holiday meals.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Some Zest: For extra citrus flavor, add a tablespoon or two of orange zest to the relish before chilling.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile of your relish. Try adding a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or ginger for a warm, aromatic twist.
• Make It Chunky: If you prefer a chunkier relish, pulse the cranberry-orange mixture fewer times in the food processor. Alternatively, you can finely chop the cranberries and oranges by hand for a more rustic texture.

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of Cranberry Orange Relish, simply replace the white sugar with your favorite sugar substitute, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You may need to adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as some sugar substitutes are sweeter than sugar. Additionally, be sure to use an orange that is low in carbs and sugar.

In conclusion, Easy Cranberry Orange Relish is a delicious and versatile side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any holiday meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this tangy relish to accompany roast turkey, ham, or even grilled meats. Whether you enjoy it as a festive addition to your holiday spread or as a refreshing condiment year-round, this Cranberry Orange Relish is sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!