This cheerful sauce combines sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and zesty oranges for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for brightening up any dish!
I like to serve it with turkey or just enjoy it straight from the jar. It’s a simple way to add a splash of color and taste to your meals. Who doesn’t love a fruity treat? 🍍🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for that tart flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen cranberries. Just don’t thaw them before cooking—they’ll break down better while frozen!
Pineapple: I love using crushed pineapple for its sweetness and texture. If you prefer, fresh pineapple or pineapple juice could work, but adjust the sugar since fresh can be less sweet.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice makes a big difference. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice can work; just choose one without added sugars. The zest adds zestiness and fragrance, so don’t skip it!
Sugar: You can modify the sugar based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or agave syrup can be great alternatives; start with a little and adjust to your sweetness preference.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce?
Thickening your sauce is simple! The key is to let the mixture simmer and break down the cranberries. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Once it boils, reduce the heat to low. This gentle simmer helps the cranberries burst, releasing their natural pectin, which thickens the sauce.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too thin after 15 minutes, you can mash some cranberries against the side of the pot to encourage further thickening!
- Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit loose at first!
Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup water
- Pineapple chunks (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need roughly 20 minutes to make this vibrant sauce. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cool water. Take your time to inspect them and pick out any soft or damaged berries. This step helps ensure a clean and fresh flavor in your sauce.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, crushed pineapple (along with its juice), granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and water. Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Cooking the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Cooling the Sauce:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool in the pot. Keep in mind that the sauce will thicken further as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s a bit runny at first!
5. Serving the Sauce:
After it has cooled, transfer the sauce to a nice serving bowl. For a festive touch, sprinkle some fresh pineapple chunks on top as a garnish. You can serve the sauce chilled or at room temperature—it’s delicious either way!
Enjoy this vibrant sauce with your favorite roasted meat or as a delightful side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Sauce?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well! There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; you can add them directly to the pot. They’ll break down beautifully while cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just thaw it in the fridge before using. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 1/4 cup of sugar and gradually add more until it’s just right for you. You can also try honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions for This Sauce?
This sauce pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or chicken. It also makes an excellent topping for pancakes or yogurt! For a festive twist, try it as a unique spread on sandwiches during the holidays!