Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe offers a unique and delightful variation to the traditional cranberry sauce we all know and love. This recipe stands out for its convenience and year-round availability, utilizing dried cranberries, a versatile and easily accessible ingredient. Ideal for festive occasions or as a gourmet addition to everyday meals, this sauce brings a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness to your dining table. In this guide, we delve into the simplicity and versatility of using dried cranberries, ensuring a flavorful and rich cranberry sauce that can elevate any meal, be it a holiday feast or a simple family dinner.

Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe Ingredients

When it comes to making a Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe from dried cranberries, the ingredients are simple and readily available all year long.

Dried Cranberries (Craisins)
Cranberry Juice
Orange Juice
White Sugar
Cornstarch
Salt
Water
Orange Zest (optional)

How to Make Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe

The process of making a Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe from dried cranberries is not only easy but also a quick way to create a delightful addition to your meals. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through each step.

Gather Your Ingredients:
- Ensure you have all the necessary ingredients: Dried Cranberries (Craisins), Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice, White Sugar, Cornstarch, Salt, Water, and Orange Zest (optional).
Preparation:
- Start by measuring your ingredients. This will help streamline the cooking process.
Reconstituting Dried Cranberries:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the dried cranberries with cranberry juice and orange juice. This mixture will help rehydrate the cranberries and infuse them with flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Adding Sweetness and Flavor:
- Once the cranberries are rehydrated and the mixture is simmering, add the white sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- If you’re using orange zest, this is the time to add it for an extra zing.
Thickening the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce without creating lumps.
- Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering cranberry mixture, stirring constantly.
Final Adjustments:
- Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember, the sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or tartness according to your preference. Add a bit more sugar if it’s too tart, or a splash of lemon juice if it’s too sweet.
Cooling and Storing:
- Once the sauce is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cranberry sauce at room temperature or slightly chilled.
- It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from traditional holiday turkey to a simple spread on morning toast.

Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe – Substitutions & Variations

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It caters to various dietary needs and preferences.

Vegetarian and Gluten-Free options are available.
For a Vegan version, use a brand of white sugar that doesn’t use bone char during processing.
Adjust the texture and sweetness to your liking, whether you prefer it chunkier, smoother, more tart, or sweeter.

Storage Tips

Proper storage of your homemade Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are detailed tips to ensure your sauce stays delicious from the day you make it until it’s served.

Cooling Down:
- After cooking, allow the cranberry sauce to reach room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which could affect the sauce’s texture and longevity.
Refrigeration:
- Transfer the cooled cranberry sauce into a clean, airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well.
- Refrigerated cranberry sauce can last up to 2 weeks. The high acidity of the cranberries acts as a natural preservative.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
- For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Portion the sauce into smaller containers or freezer-safe bags. This way, you can thaw only what you need for a meal.
- Label the containers with the date, so you know when it was frozen. Cranberry sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its quality.
Thawing Frozen Cranberry Sauce:
- To thaw, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it sit for 1-2 days. Avoid thawing at room temperature as it can lead to bacterial growth.
- Once thawed, stir the sauce well. Some separation of liquids is normal after freezing; stirring helps restore its original consistency.
Avoiding Contamination:
- Always use a clean spoon when serving the cranberry sauce. This prevents bacteria from entering the sauce, which can cause it to spoil more quickly.
Reviving the Sauce:
- If the cranberry sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can revive it by stirring in a small amount of warm water or orange juice until it reaches the desired consistency.
Checking for Spoilage:
- Before using stored cranberry sauce, check for signs of spoilage like mold, off-odor, or unusual taste. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the sauce.

What to Serve with Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe

The versatility of the Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe extends to its pairing options. Here are some excellent choices to complement your holiday spread.

Turkey, particularly a well-brined one.
Mashed sweet potatoes for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Other dishes like grilled chicken or brats, all of which pair beautifully with the tanginess of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to making a Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe with dried cranberries, several questions often arise. Here are detailed answers to some of the most common queries to help you perfect your sauce.

Can Dried Cranberries Be Used to Make Cranberry Sauce?
- Absolutely! Dried cranberries are a fantastic alternative to fresh cranberries. They are convenient, available year-round, and can be rehydrated to create a sauce that is just as delicious as one made with fresh berries.
Are Craisins Suitable for This Recipe?
- Yes, Craisins, which are a popular brand of dried cranberries, work excellently in cranberry sauce recipes. They are already sweetened, which can be a plus in adding flavor to your sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Cranberry Juice?
- If cranberry juice is not available, apple juice is a great substitute. It adds a different but equally delightful fruity flavor to the sauce. In a pinch, even water with a little extra sugar can work.
Can I Use Unsweetened Dried Cranberries?
- Yes, unsweetened dried cranberries can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. Taste as you go and add sugar to your desired level of sweetness.
How Can I Adjust the Texture of the Sauce?
- For a smoother sauce, you can puree the rehydrated cranberries using a blender or an immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, simply reduce the blending time or skip it altogether.
Can I Make This Sauce in Advance?
- Yes, one of the great things about cranberry sauce is that it can be made in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator and the flavors often meld and improve over time.
Is This Cranberry Sauce Vegan?
- This sauce can easily be made vegan by ensuring the sugar used is vegan-friendly (some sugars are processed with bone char). Always check the labels if you are catering to a vegan diet.
How Long Does Cranberry Sauce Last?
- When stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container, cranberry sauce can last up to 2 weeks. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months.
Can the Sauce Be Frozen and Reheated?
- Yes, cranberry sauce freezes very well. Thaw in the refrigerator before use and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary to adjust consistency.
Are Lingonberries a Suitable Substitute for Cranberries?
- Lingonberries can be used as a substitute, but they have a different flavor profile. They are more tart than cranberries, so you might need to adjust the sugar in the recipe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making a Dried Cranberry Sauce Recipe with dried cranberries is an easy, delicious, and versatile option for your holiday meals. It’s a recipe that allows for customization and can be made well in advance, saving you time and stress during busy festive preparations.