Cranberry orange relish is a vibrant, refreshing condiment that brightens up any meal, especially during the holiday season. This zesty relish balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweet and citrusy notes of oranges, creating a delicious accompaniment to turkey, ham, or even as a topping for cream cheese on crackers.

Unlike traditional cranberry sauces, which can be heavy and overly sweet, this relish offers a light and invigorating taste that can elevate any dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a must-have for festive gatherings or everyday meals.

Ingredients

• To prepare approximately 2 cups of cranberry orange relish, gather the following ingredients:
• Fresh cranberries: 12 ounces (about 3 cups)
• Orange: 1 large (zest and juice)
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (adjust to taste)
• Walnuts or pecans: 1/2 cup, chopped (optional)
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (to taste)

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any that are soft or blemished. Next, zest the orange using a microplane or zester, being careful to only remove the outer layer of the peel. Then, cut the orange in half and juice it, removing any seeds.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and granulated sugar. If you’re adding nuts and cinnamon, incorporate them at this stage. Stir the mixture until the cranberries are well coated with the sugar and orange juice.

Step 3: Process the Mixture

Transfer the cranberry mixture to a food processor. Pulse the mixture a few times until the cranberries are coarsely chopped but still retain some texture. Be careful not to over-process; you want the relish to have some bite!

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste the relish to determine if it needs more sweetness or seasoning. You can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor or a pinch of salt to enhance the overall taste. If you want more citrus notes, consider adding a bit more orange juice or zest.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, transfer the relish to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The relish can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect option for holiday meal prep.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Before serving, you can garnish the cranberry orange relish with a few additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of orange zest for a pop of color. Serve it alongside your main dishes, and enjoy the burst of flavor it brings to your plate!

Chef’s Note

This cranberry orange relish is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients such as diced apples, dried cranberries, or even a splash of brandy for a more sophisticated flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños can add an unexpected twist. This relish pairs well not only with savory dishes but also as a topping for desserts, such as ice cream or cheesecake.

Nutritional Information (per 2 tablespoons)

• Calories: 50
• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value
• Calcium: 1% of the Daily Value

Conclusion

Cranberry orange relish is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavor and freshness that can enhance both holiday feasts and everyday dinners. Its combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange makes it a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.

Easy to prepare and customizable, this relish can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal. Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying it on a simple weekday meal, this homemade cranberry orange relish is sure to impress! Enjoy this delicious treat with your favorite dishes, and savor the flavors of the season.

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