Cranberry Orange Relish

Cranberry orange relish is a sweet, tart, and slightly spiced side dish made from fresh cranberries, citrus segments, and sugar. Served chilled, it adds brightness and contrast to rich main dishes and is a staple during Thanksgiving and holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and flavorful: Bursting with citrus and natural sweetness.
• Quick and easy: Minimal prep with no baking required.
• A holiday essential: A classic side for festive meals.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes better as it chills and flavors meld.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh cranberries
• Navel orange (peeled and segmented)
• Orange zest
• Granulated sugar
• Water
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

directions

1. Prepare cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly.
2. Cook: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange segments, orange zest, sugar, and water. Stir well.
3. Simmer: Cook for 10–15 minutes, or until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Stir occasionally.
4. Add spices: If desired, stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt for added warmth.
5. Cool and chill: Remove from heat and let the relish cool to room temperature. Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Not needed—this relish is served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use canned cranberries instead of fresh?

Fresh cranberries are ideal for texture and flavor, but frozen can be used as a substitute.

Is cranberry relish the same as cranberry sauce?

No, relish typically includes whole fruit segments and zest, while sauce is more uniform and gelatinous.

How do I reduce the sugar?

You can cut the sugar slightly or replace some of it with honey or maple syrup, though the texture may change.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, apples, pears, or pineapple chunks add interesting flavor layers.

Should I peel the orange?

Yes, remove the peel and white pith before adding the orange segments to avoid bitterness.

Can I make this without cooking?

Yes. For a raw relish, pulse cranberries, orange segments, zest, and sugar in a food processor until finely chopped. Chill before serving.

What meals does it pair well with?

It’s excellent with turkey, ham, pork roast, or even as a spread on sandwiches.

Is it suitable for vegans?

Yes, it contains no animal products.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. Just use a larger saucepan and extend the simmer time slightly.

Why is my relish too thick?

You may have simmered too long. Stir in a tablespoon or two of water after chilling to loosen it.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Relish is a zesty and festive addition to any holiday table. Its balance of tart and sweet flavors perfectly complements rich main dishes, and its make-ahead ease makes it a stress-free favorite year after year.

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