Table of Contents
Introduction
Cranberry sauce is a quintessential part of many holiday meals, and Ocean Spray has been a trusted brand for generations. In this post, we’ll share a simple and delicious Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe that will elevate your holiday spread. We’ll also provide tips on how to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
The History of Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce
Ocean Spray, a cooperative of cranberry growers, has been producing cranberry products since 1930. The company’s famous cranberry sauce recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years, a testament to its timeless appeal.
The Preface Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients and Instructions
Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Course: SideCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings5
minutes15
minutes110
kcalTo make this classic Ocean Spray cranberry sauce, you’ll need:
Ingredients
1 (12 oz) package of Ocean Spray Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
Directions
- Rinse the cranberries in a colander and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries to the saucepan and return the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, the sauce will continue to thicken.
- Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl or storage container. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Customization Options
While this basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it to suit your preferences:
Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and add more to taste. For a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar to 1 1/4 cups.
Add Citrus Zest
Grate the zest of an orange, lemon, or lime into the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the tart cranberries.
Spice It Up
Add a cinnamon stick, a few whole cloves, or a pinch of ground nutmeg to the saucepan for a warm, spiced flavor.
Make It Boozy
Stir in a splash of port wine, brandy, or orange liqueur after removing the sauce from the heat for an adult-friendly twist.
Experiment with Sweeteners
Replace the granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sugar substitute for a different flavor profile or to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- Thanksgiving Turkey: Serve the sauce alongside your holiday turkey for a classic combination.
- Sandwiches: Spread cranberry sauce on leftover turkey sandwiches for a tangy, flavorful addition.
- Cheese Boards: Include a small bowl of cranberry sauce on your cheese board for a sweet-tart contrast to savory cheeses and meats.
- Yogurt or Oatmeal: Swirl a spoonful of cranberry sauce into your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a festive breakfast treat.
Variations and Twists
While the classic Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce recipe is beloved by many, there are countless ways to put your own spin on this holiday favorite. Here are a few ideas:
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a warmly spiced version.
- Cranberry-Orange Sauce: Stir in the zest of one orange and a tablespoon of orange juice for a citrusy kick.
- Cranberry-Ginger Sauce: Grate a small piece of fresh ginger into the sauce for a spicy, aromatic flavor.
- Boozy Cranberry Sauce: Add a splash of port wine, red wine, or brandy for an adult-only treat.
Storing and Freezing
Homemade cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw the frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
This Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe is a simple, delicious, and customizable addition to your holiday menu. By following these easy steps and experimenting with different variations, you’ll create a memorable sauce that will impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to make a double batch – leftovers are just as tasty!
Remember, the key to a great cranberry sauce is using fresh or frozen Ocean Spray cranberries and adjusting the flavors to your liking. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious homemade cranberry sauce!
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