My grandma always loves using fresh ingredients when she can and prefers homemade compared to the gelatinous mush of canned cranberry sauce. The recipe only requires 5 ingredients and takes less than 20 minutes to make from start to finish.
Ingredients
12 oz. fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
zest of 1 orange
juice of two oranges
1/2 cup water (optional, see notes)
Directions
Combine all ingredients together in a medium sauce pan.
Bring to a boil and then turn the heat down to a medium-low heat
Use a potato masher or large spoon to crush the cranberries.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it becomes your desired consistency.
Serve as a sauce for meats or add to other dishes for a sweet and spicy twist.
Depending on how thick you want the sauce, you can omit the water entirely and just use the juice from the oranges.
Spice it up by adding 1 finely-chopped jalapeño, deseeded and deveined. The jalapeño adds a nice spicy pop of flavor.
For a holiday appetizer, add on top of room temperature cream cheese. Spread on a plate and serve with crackers.
Add 1-2 tablespoons to your favorite margarita recipe. Stir well or blend it up for a festive cocktail.