Name: Cranberry Relish Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 24 h 20 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz cranberries; 1 orange; 1 apple; ⅓ cup brown sugar; ⅓ cup sugar; ¼ tsp Cinnamon; ⅓ cup pecans

This delightful cranberry relish is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment for your holiday meals. With a hint of citrus from the orange and the crunch of pecans, this relish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Photos of Cranberry Relish Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this cranberry relish are likely to be found in your pantry, fresh cranberries and pecans might not be as common. Fresh cranberries are typically available in the produce section during the fall and winter months, while pecans can usually be found in the baking aisle or with the other nuts.

Ingredients for Cranberry Relish Recipe

cranberries: These provide the tart base for the relish. Fresh cranberries are preferable, though frozen can be used in a pinch.

orange: Adds a bright citrus flavor and complements the tartness of the cranberries.

apple: Brings natural sweetness and a bit of texture to the relish.

brown sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.

sugar: Adds additional sweetness to the relish, making it more palatable.

cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

pecans: Contributes a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

One reader, Allyson Oliveira says:

This cranberry relish recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The combination of fresh cranberries, orange, and apple with a hint of cinnamon is perfect. The pecans add a lovely crunch. It's a must-try for any holiday table!

Allyson Oliveira

Key Techniques for Crafting Cranberry Relish

How to chop the orange and apple in a food processor: Peel and core the apple, then cut both the apple and orange into smaller pieces before placing them in the food processor. Pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed.

How to chop cranberries: Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems or bad berries. Place them in the food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped.

How to refrigerate properly: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

How To Make Cranberry Relish

A Thanksgiving meal is not complete without homemade cranberry relish. In this recipe, we are going to make a fresh batch with a touch of orange and apple.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

for chilling Time: 1 day

Total: 1 day 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozcranberries
1orangepeeled, see note
1applepeeled and cored
⅓ cupbrown sugar
⅓ cupsugar
¼tspcinnamon
⅓ cuppecansfinely chopped, optional

Instructions

Chop the orange and apple in a food processor, transfer to a bowl.
Chop cranberries and add to the orange and apple mixture.
Add remaining ingredients and stir well.
Refrigerate at least 24 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 2041.57kcal
Fat: 71.36g
Saturated Fat: 6.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 40.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 21.43g
Carbohydrates: 364.84g
Fiber: 12.81g
Sugar: 348.01g
Protein: 9.61g
Sodium: 43.58mg
Calcium: 225.25mg
Potassium: 674.04mg
Iron: 3.95mg
Vitamin A: 5.87µg
Vitamin C: 11.46mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Cranberry Relish

For a more vibrant flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are fragrant before adding them to the cranberry relish. This will enhance their nutty taste and add a delightful crunch to the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cranberry Relish

Use a food processor: Chop the orange, apple, and cranberries in the food processor to save time and ensure uniform pieces.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the brown sugar, sugar, and cinnamon in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Toast the pecans: Toast the pecans ahead of time to enhance their flavor and save time during assembly.

Refrigerate overnight: Make the cranberry relish the day before to allow flavors to meld, saving you prep time on the day of serving.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Relish Recipe

cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Rehydrate them in water or juice to mimic the texture of fresh cranberries.
cranberries - Substitute with pomegranate seeds: They provide a similar tartness and burst of flavor.
orange - Substitute with lemon: Use lemon zest and juice for a similar citrusy brightness.
orange - Substitute with mandarin: Mandarins offer a sweet and tangy flavor close to oranges.
apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness to apples.
apple - Substitute with pineapple: Pineapple adds a tropical sweetness and acidity.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar depth of flavor and sweetness.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and slight floral note.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and a slight caramel flavor.
sugar - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a natural sweetener with a mild flavor.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a complex flavor that includes hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar crunch and slightly bitter flavor.
pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Creative Ways to Present This Festive Dish

Use a crystal-clear glass bowl: Present the cranberry relish in a pristine, transparent glass bowl to showcase its vibrant colors and textures.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary on top for a touch of elegance and a hint of green contrast.
Incorporate citrus zest: Sprinkle some finely grated orange zest over the relish to enhance the citrus aroma and add a pop of color.
Serve with artisanal crackers: Pair the cranberry relish with a selection of artisanal crackers or toasted baguette slices for an upscale touch.
Add a drizzle of honey: Lightly drizzle honey over the top to add a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness.
Use a decorative spoon: Provide a small, ornate silver spoon for serving, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Create a layered effect: Layer the cranberry relish with thin slices of apple and orange in the bowl to create visual depth and interest.
Highlight the pecans: Place a few whole pecans on top of the relish to emphasize the nutty component and add a crunchy texture.
Serve on a wooden board: Present the glass bowl on a rustic wooden board surrounded by the garnishes and accompaniments for a natural, earthy feel.
Use edible flowers: Decorate the edges of the bowl with a few edible flowers to add a delicate and colorful finishing touch.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cranberry Relish

Food processor: Used to chop the orange, apple, and cranberries quickly and uniformly.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chopped fruits and cranberries with the remaining ingredients.
Spatula: Used to stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the cranberry relish for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the brown sugar, sugar, and pecans accurately.
Knife: Used to cut the orange and apple into smaller pieces before placing them in the food processor.

Storing and Freezing Cranberry Relish: A Guide

This cranberry relish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will meld and improve over time, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for holiday gatherings.
If you have leftover relish or want to prepare it well in advance, you can freeze it for later use. Transfer the relish to a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Label the container with the date and contents.
Freeze the cranberry relish for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw the relish overnight in the refrigerator.
After thawing, give the relish a good stir to redistribute any separated juices. If the relish seems a bit watery, you can drain off the excess liquid or stir it back in, depending on your preference.
If you prefer a fresher taste, you can freeze the cranberries, orange, and apple separately after chopping them. When you're ready to make the relish, simply thaw the fruits, combine them with the remaining ingredients, and let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Surprising Fact About Cranberry Relish

A unique aspect of this cranberry relish recipe is that it requires no cooking. The natural acidity of the cranberries and orange helps to preserve the relish, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully during the 24-hour refrigeration period.

Is Making Cranberry Relish at Home Cost-Effective?

This cranberry relish recipe is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like cranberries, orange, and apple are relatively inexpensive, especially when bought in season. The pecans might be the priciest component, but you only need a small amount. Overall, this dish can be made for around $8-$10, serving a household of 4. Given its simplicity, freshness, and vibrant flavors, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Cranberry Relish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cranberry relish recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional cranberry sauce, but it still contains a significant amount of sugar. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can support overall health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Oranges and apples provide additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Pecans offer healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
However, the recipe calls for a total of ⅔ cup of sugar (brown sugar and white sugar combined), which can contribute to excessive sugar intake if consumed in large quantities.

While this relish is a more nutritious option compared to store-bought cranberry sauce, there is room for improvement to make it even healthier.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this cranberry relish, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Start by cutting the sugar by half and adjust to taste. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Increase the proportion of fruits, such as adding more cranberries, oranges, or apples, to boost the fiber and vitamin content while reducing the overall sugar concentration.
Add more spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the flavor without relying on additional sugar.
Toast the pecans before adding them to the relish to bring out their natural oils and flavors, allowing you to use fewer nuts while still achieving a satisfying taste and texture.
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients, such as chia seeds or flaxseeds, to increase the fiber and omega-3 fatty acid content.

Editor's Take: Why Cranberry Relish Is a Must-Have

This cranberry relish recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for holiday meals. The combination of cranberries, orange, and apple provides a refreshing burst of fruitiness, while the brown sugar and cinnamon add warmth and depth. The pecans introduce a pleasant crunch, enhancing the texture. Allowing the relish to refrigerate for 24 hours ensures the flavors meld beautifully. Overall, it's a simple yet sophisticated dish that can elevate any festive spread.

Enhance Your Cranberry Relish Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy, caramelized flavors of Brussels sprouts mingling with the sweet-tart notes of cranberry relish. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sophistication, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by a luscious maple glaze pairs beautifully with the tangy and fruity cranberry relish. This side dish brings a vibrant color and a hint of autumn warmth to your table.

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast: Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast: A succulent turkey breast seasoned with aromatic herbs is the perfect canvas for the zesty and refreshing cranberry relish. The savory and juicy meat complements the relish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness is an ideal companion for the cranberry relish. The soup's warmth and richness provide a comforting contrast to the relish's bright and tangy profile.

Apple and Walnut Salad: Apple and Walnut Salad: Crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a mix of fresh greens create a refreshing salad that pairs wonderfully with the cranberry relish. The combination of textures and flavors adds a delightful complexity to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Cranberry Relish

Apple Chutney: Dive into the tangy and sweet world of apple chutney. This delightful condiment combines apples, onions, and a blend of spices to create a versatile relish that pairs perfectly with meats and cheeses. It's a must-try for any home cook looking to add a burst of flavor to their dishes.

Pear and Ginger Compote: Experience the warm and spicy notes of pear and ginger compote. This easy-to-make recipe brings together ripe pears, fresh ginger, and a hint of cinnamon for a comforting and aromatic treat. Perfect for topping desserts or enjoying with a scoop of ice cream.

Spiced Apple Butter: Indulge in the rich and velvety texture of spiced apple butter. Slow-cooked apples meld with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove to create a spread that's perfect for toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries. A true autumnal delight!

Orange Marmalade: Brighten your breakfast table with homemade orange marmalade. This classic preserve captures the zesty essence of oranges and balances it with just the right amount of sweetness. Spread it on bread, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a glaze for meats.

Pecan Pie Filling: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a luscious pecan pie filling. This rich and gooey mixture of pecans, brown sugar, and butter is the heart of a classic pecan pie. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a decadent dessert.

Why trust this Cranberry Relish Recipe:

This cranberry relish recipe is a perfect blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and zesty orange. The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor, while pecans provide a delightful crunch. By allowing the mixture to refrigerate for at least 24 hours, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a relish that is both refreshing and complex. This recipe has been carefully crafted and tested to ensure a delicious result every time.

Share your thoughts on the Cranberry Relish Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before chopping.

How long can I store the cranberry relish in the fridge?

You can store the cranberry relish in the fridge for up to a week. Just keep it in an airtight container.

Can I substitute the pecans with another type of nut?

Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even leave the nuts out if you prefer.

Do I need to peel the orange and apple before chopping them?

No, you don't need to peel the orange and apple. The peel adds extra flavor and texture to the relish.

Can I adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet relish, you can reduce the amount of both brown sugar and white sugar.