Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish

A Perfect Holiday Side Dish

This Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish is a beloved staple of Thanksgiving dinners, offering a burst of tart sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavors of roasted turkey and mashed potatoes. Its vibrant red color adds a festive touch to the holiday table, making it a visual delight as well as a culinary one!

This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, and for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Simply combine fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar or maple syrup in this case and a splash of water, then simmer until the berries burst and the sauce thickens. Yes it’s that simple! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this easy Cranberry Relish recipe is sure to impress all your Thanksgiving guests!

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Thanksgiving Traditions

Growing up in Italy I didn’t know much about Thanksgiving. Most of my knowledge revolved around the image of a turkey with a traditional top hat from the 16th century dancing around a table. I have no idea where that came from – maybe a advert on TV? – but as a kid, I found it quite bizarre and amusing! Not quite understanding what was going on. 😅

Then in school we learnt about European settlers and colonialism within the Americas. And I learnt a bit more about the origin of Thanksgiving and the cherished holiday that is has become today.

The first Thanskiving was held in 1620 by the Pilgrim to thank the Wampanoag Native Americans who helped them survive their first winters in this new land that for them was North America. So primarily an American holiday, it’s now celebrated in many countries. It’s a time for family, friends, good and kind deeds, being grateful for nature and its gifts… and of course feasting!

More than Cranberry Relish: the Thankskgiving classics

Thanksgiving has a pletora of delicious dishes that come together to create the traditional meal that we know of. It often feature a delectable spread of roasted turkey, green beans casserole, dressings and gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, butter bread rolls and of course the Cranberry Relish we talk about today.

But let’s not forget the sweet treats! We have Apple Pie, Peacan Pie and the famous Pumpkin pie being the centrepiece for pudding – you can find the vegan adaptation of this recipe by The Cheeky Green Bean here ⬅️

The Health Benefits of Cranberries

Now, as a classic Cheeky Green Bean move, we like to look at the properties of the food we present to you. Cranberries are not only delicious but also offer a range of health benefits.

Packed with antioxidants, these tart berries can help boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and prevent urinary tract infections. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for a healthy diet.

Because of their anti-inflamatory properties they are excellent additions to a GERD-friendly diet. If you have an upset stomach they can help keep away harmful bacteria and if you have an irritated oesophagus because of acid reflux, cranberries can help you alleviate the discomfort! One way to introduce cranberries in your diet is through cranberry juice and cranberry herbal tea, and of course this Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish. 😉

Sources: dietingwell.com

Cheeky Ingredients Swaps

Orange: More of an addition than a swap. If you want to add an even more festive note to your Cranberry Relish than about half an orange zest added with the cranberries while cooking should do the trick. 😊
Fruit Juice: Instead of water use fruit juice for an extra natural sweetner. I recommend, orange juice, apple juice or – if you feel spicy – mango!
Maple Syrup: I sometimes make it with 100gr of Maple syrup instead of half sugar and half maple syrup and it’s delish! Just keep in mind it may result a bit less creamy.

Pairing Your Cranberry Relish

This tangy cranberry relish is the perfect complement to a variety of dishes. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Classic Thanksgiving: Pair it with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Cheese Board: Serve it with a variety of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and my favourite, goat cheese.
Grilled Cheese: Elevate your grilled cheese sandwich with a dollop of cranberry relish.
Pork Tenderloin: The sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry relish complement the savory pork perfectly. If you’re in the UK, pigs in blanket seems to be a winning pairing with Cranberry Sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a burst of flavor to roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.

Let’s Get Cooking!

This easy cranberry relish recipe is a great way to add a touch of sweetness and tartness to your Thanksgiving meal.

Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish

Bean

A quick and simple recipe for a festive and delicious cranberry relish. Perfect for Thanksgiving and more holiday meals! Garnish with a couple of fresh cranberries or Orange zest for an extra tangy and festive flavour.

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Servings 5 servings

Equipment

1 Medium pot
1 Silicon or wooden spoon

Ingredients

300/10 gr/oz Cranberries Fresh or frozen
50/¼ gr/cup Maple syrup
50/¼ gr/cup Cane sugar
50/¼ ml/cup Water
1 Cinnamon stick
Orange zest optional
Orange juice optional

Instructions

Combine maple syrup, sugar, the cinnamon stick, and water in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the maple syrup and sugar dissolves.
Add the cranberries and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 12-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the relish thickens to create a creamy sauce.
When it's fully cooked, let it cool to room temperature and remove the cinnamon stick. Give it a last stir to combine all the flavours. 😊
Your Cranberry Relish is ready!
Consume immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Suitable for freezing, for up to 3 months.