The Perfect Holiday Tradition
My Favorite is Festive Cranberry Relish and Every holiday season, my kitchen becomes a flurry of activity, with aromas of cinnamon and citrus filling the air. One dish that has become a beloved tradition in my family is this Festive Cranberry Relish. It all started a few years ago when I wanted to create something special for our Thanksgiving dinner. I wanted a side dish that would not only complement the turkey but also bring a burst of vibrant color and flavor to the table. That’s when I thought of cranberries, with their tartness and rich red hue, as the star ingredient.
A Dash of Grand Marnier Magic
As I began experimenting with the recipe, I realized that the key to making this relish truly unforgettable was the addition of a little Grand Marnier. This orange-flavored liqueur adds a sophisticated touch, enhancing the natural sweetness of the cranberries and giving the relish a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. I remember the first time I served it, my family’s eyes lit up as they tasted the combination of tart cranberries, juicy apples, and crunchy pecans, all beautifully balanced by the hint of orange and spice.
Making It Ahead for Best Flavor
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s even better when made a day in advance. Letting the relish rest overnight allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious blend that’s both sweet and tangy. I always make sure to prepare it the day before our holiday dinner, so I can focus on other dishes on the big day. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that never fails to draw compliments from guests, and it has become a staple on our holiday table.
A Versatile Delight
Over the years, I’ve discovered that this Festive Cranberry Relish is incredibly versatile. While it’s perfect alongside roasted turkey or ham, it also makes a delicious topping for yogurt or oatmeal the next morning. Sometimes, I even enjoy it as a spread on a slice of warm bread. The vibrant color and burst of flavor make it a delightful addition to any meal, and it’s a dish I now look forward to making every holiday season. It’s more than just a relish; it’s a celebration of the season’s best flavors.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Festive Cranberry Relish
- For a thicker relish, simmer the mixture longer, allowing more water to evaporate. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner relish, reduce the simmering time slightly or add a splash more orange juice.
- Taste the relish before it cools down and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or tartness by squeezing in extra orange juice. The balance between sweet and tart is key to a perfect cranberry relish.
- Pecans give a rich, buttery flavor, while walnuts offer a slightly bitter note. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor and add a bit of crunch to the relish.
- This relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy holiday prep. The flavors only improve with time.
- For an elegant presentation, garnish with a few whole cranberries, a sprinkle of fresh orange zest, and a cinnamon stick just before serving. This adds visual appeal and hints at the flavors inside.
Festive Cranberry Relish
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes180
kcal1
hour1
hour25
minutesGet ready to wow your guests with this Festive Cranberry Relish! Packed with vibrant cranberries, juicy apples, crunchy nuts, and a splash of Grand Marnier, this dish is a flavor explosion. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this relish is best made a day ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully. It’s a simple yet impressive addition to your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
16 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup peeled and chopped Gala apple
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/3 cup dried currants
1/3 cup Grand Marnier liqueur
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Zest of one orange
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Alternative Ingredients:
Sugar substitute for sugar
Apple cider for Grand Marnier
Raisins for currants
Almonds for pecans or walnuts
Directions
- Boiling Sugar Water – In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Adding Cranberries – Once boiling, add the fresh or frozen cranberries and stir well to combine.
- Simmering Ingredients – Reduce the heat to low so that the mixture simmers gently. Add the chopped Gala apple, pecans or walnuts, dried currants, Grand Marnier liqueur, orange juice, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cooling and Resting – Remove the saucepan from heat and let the relish cool down before transferring it to a serving bowl. For best results, refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld together.
Equipment
- large saucepan
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 35g
- Vitamin A: 2IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Festive Cranberry Relish
Can I make this relish without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the Grand Marnier with apple cider or orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Dried cranberries can be used, but you’ll need to rehydrate them by soaking in warm water or juice for about 15 minutes before adding them to the recipe.
Is this relish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the cranberry relish in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
How do I make this relish more tart or less sweet?
To make the relish more tart, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or add more cranberries. For a sweeter relish, add extra sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, any firm apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp can be used. Granny Smith will make the relish tarter, while Honeycrisp will add sweetness.
