The scent of simmering cranberries and bright orange zest always transports me back to Grandma Rosie’s kitchen. I must have been five, maybe six, when I first helped her sort through the ruby-red berries, our fingers stained purple with their juice. That kitchen, filled with the warmth of her oven and the hum of her stories, is where my love for baking truly began – rolling lumpy biscuit dough that, to me, was absolute perfection.
One recipe, though, stands out as a true cornerstone of our family’s holiday table, a vibrant staple at Sweet Magnolia now: her incredible Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. It wasn’t the jiggly, canned stuff we saw at the store; this was alive, bursting with vibrant flavors, a perfect balance of tart and sweet. We always made a huge batch, ensuring enough of this delightful Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish for holiday meals and plenty for jarred gifts.
Now, as the owner of Sweet Magnolia here in Asheville, I carry on that tradition, sharing this cherished family recipe with my customers, and now, with you. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a taste of home, a spoonful of history, a true celebration of fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe
Prepare to fall head over heels for this incredible Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. Forget everything you thought you knew about cranberry sauce from a can; this homemade version is a revelation. First, its vibrant, tangy-sweet flavor profile is simply unmatched.
The tartness of fresh cranberries perfectly balances the bright, zesty notes of orange, creating a symphony for your taste buds. This isn’t just a holiday side dish; it’s a versatile condiment that elevates everything it touches. Making your own Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish also gives you complete control over the sweetness and texture.
Do you prefer it a little tarter? Less sugar. More chunky?
A lighter touch with the food processor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, demanding minimal effort for maximum reward. You will feel a real sense of accomplishment presenting this gorgeous, ruby-red relish on your table.
It brings a touch of rustic elegance to any meal, transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish recipe is a beloved classic for a reason, promising to become a cherished tradition in your own kitchen, just as it has been in mine for generations. Get ready to embrace the fresh flavors and simple joy of this timeless recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is the first step to making a truly spectacular Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. Each component plays a crucial role in building its signature flavor profile.
* 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked over
* *These are the star!
Their natural tartness is essential.*
* 1 large navel orange, thoroughly washed
* *You will use both the zest and the juice for a bright, citrusy punch.*
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* *This sweetens the relish, balancing the cranberries’ tartness.
Adjust to your preference.*
* 1/4 cup water
* *Helps the cranberries break down and prevents sticking as it begins to cook.*
* Pinch of salt
* *A tiny amount enhances all the other flavors, making them pop.*
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a tiny pinch of ground ginger
* *For a subtle warmth and aromatic depth that complements the fruit.*
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delightful Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Prepare the Cranberries: First, thoroughly rinse your fresh cranberries under cool water. Carefully pick through them, discarding any soft, bruised, or shriveled berries.
A good sort ensures the best flavor and texture in your Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish.
2. Zest and Juice the Orange: Wash the orange well.
Using a fine grater or microplane, carefully zest the entire orange, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith underneath. Place the zest into a medium saucepan. Halve the zested orange and squeeze out all its juice, adding it to the saucepan along with the zest.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the sorted fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, water, and a tiny pinch of salt to the saucepan with the orange zest and juice. If you are using optional spices like cinnamon or ginger, add them now as well.
4. Simmer and Cook: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.
As it heats, the sugar will dissolve and the cranberries will begin to soften. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Watch Them Burst: Continue to simmer the relish for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will hear and see the cranberries beginning to pop and burst open. This releases their pectin, which naturally thickens the relish.
The mixture will thicken as it cooks, transforming into that beautiful, glossy Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish.
6. Cool and Chill: Once most of the cranberries have burst and the relish has reached your desired consistency (remember it will thicken further as it cools), remove the saucepan from the heat.
Allow the relish to cool completely at room temperature.
7. Process for Texture (Optional): If you prefer a smoother relish, carefully transfer the cooled mixture to a food processor and pulse a few times until you reach your desired consistency.
For a chunkier relish, simply leave it as is, or lightly mash it with a potato masher.
8. Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish to an airtight container.
Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, making for a truly spectacular relish.
Pro Tips for Success
Crafting the perfect Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. These tips, straight from my Sweet Magnolia kitchen, will ensure your relish turns out wonderfully every time.
* Don’t Overcook: Cranberries contain pectin, which naturally thickens the relish. Cooking it too long can result in a jam-like consistency that is too firm. Simmer only until most of the berries have burst and the sauce looks glossy.
It will thicken considerably more as it cools. For the best Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish, err on the side of slightly undercooked rather than overcooked.
* Taste and Adjust: Always taste your relish once it cools a bit.
Depending on the sweetness of your oranges and the tartness of your cranberries, you might want to add a tiny bit more sugar. Remember, you can always add more sweetness, but you can’t take it away! A squeeze of fresh orange juice can also brighten the flavor if it feels a little flat.
* High-Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh, plump cranberries and a vibrant, unblemished orange will yield the best flavor and appearance for your Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. Subpar ingredients will result in a subpar relish.
* Chill Time is Crucial: Resist the urge to serve your relish immediately.
The flavors truly meld and deepen after several hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator. This chill time allows the sweet, tart, and citrus notes to harmonize, creating a more complex and satisfying Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish.
* Using a Food Processor: If you opt for a smoother texture, be careful not to over-process.
A few quick pulses are usually enough to break down the cranberries without turning the relish into a liquid. For a more rustic feel, a potato masher works perfectly.
* Make Ahead: This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is an excellent make-ahead dish.
Preparing it a day or two in advance not only saves time on busy occasions but also enhances the flavor as it sits. It’s perfect for holiday meal prep!
* Clean Zesting: When zesting your orange, make sure to only get the brightly colored outer layer. The white pith underneath can be very bitter and will impart an undesirable flavor to your Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish.
Crafting the perfect Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. For another delicious dish that balances flavors beautifully, check out my recipe for Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo, which pairs nicely with this tangy relish.
Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the many wonderful things about this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying long after the initial feast.
* Refrigeration: Once your relish has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, this homemade Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish stays fresh and delicious for up to 2 weeks.
The flavors often deepen over time, so it tastes even better a few days after preparation.
* Freezing: This relish freezes beautifully! Spoon the cooled Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to account for expansion.
It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
* Serving Temperature: This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
There is no need to reheat it. In fact, heating it again might compromise its fresh, bright flavors and texture. Just take it out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow it to temper slightly, enhancing its aroma and taste.
* Batch Cooking: Because it stores so well, I often make a double or triple batch of this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. It ensures I have plenty for holiday meals, unexpected guests, or just to enjoy throughout the week.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The versatility of Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish makes it a culinary star far beyond the holiday table. While it’s a traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas staple, its bright, tangy-sweet flavor complements a surprising array of dishes.
* Holiday Feasts: This is its natural home! Serve generous dollops of Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or succulent roasted chicken. It cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
* Pork & Poultry: Don’t limit it to holidays. This relish pairs wonderfully with weeknight meals. Spoon it over baked chicken breasts, grilled pork chops, or even a simple roast pork loin for an instant flavor upgrade.
* Sandwiches & Wraps: Elevate your everyday lunch! Spread a layer of Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish on turkey or chicken sandwiches. It adds a gourmet touch and a burst of flavor that canned cranberry sauce can only dream of.
Try it on a leftover turkey sandwich with a bit of cream cheese – divine!
* Breakfast & Brunch: Think outside the box! Swirl this vibrant relish into your morning oatmeal or yogurt.
Top pancakes, waffles, or French toast with it instead of maple syrup for a delightful change. It adds a fresh, fruity element to breakfast.
* Cheese Boards: This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish makes an exceptional addition to any cheese and charcuterie board.
Its sweet and tart notes perfectly complement creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese.
* Desserts: Believe it or not, this relish can enhance certain desserts. A spoonful over vanilla ice cream, plain cheesecake, or even a rice pudding adds a lovely tart counterpoint.
* Savory Appetizers: Mix a bit of the relish with softened cream cheese for a quick and easy spread for crackers or crostini. It also works as a glaze for meatballs or cocktail sausages.
* Salad Dressing Base: For a truly innovative twist, whisk a tablespoon of this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish into a vinaigrette for a unique fruity dressing.
The versatility of Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish makes it a culinary star far beyond the holiday table. To see how it can elevate appetizers, consider serving it alongside Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken for a delightful flavor contrast.
FAQs
Can I make this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend making your Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish at least a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to fully meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious and harmonious relish. It’s a perfect make-ahead component for any busy meal or holiday gathering.
How long does homemade cranberry relish last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your homemade Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish will last for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you certainly can! If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Simply add them directly to the saucepan as you would with fresh cranberries. They might take a minute or two longer to burst, but the end result for your Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish will be just as delicious.
Is this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is naturally both vegan and gluten-free. It uses only plant-based ingredients (cranberries, oranges, sugar, water) and contains no gluten-containing components, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
What’s the difference between cranberry sauce and relish?
The main difference lies in the preparation and texture. Cranberry sauce is typically cooked longer, often to a very smooth, jam-like consistency, and can be whole berry or jellied. Cranberry relish, like this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish, is usually fresher, with a shorter cooking time that often leaves some texture from the fruit. It typically has a brighter, more vibrant flavor profile, as the fresh elements are more pronounced.
Can I reduce the sugar in this Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish recipe?
Yes, you definitely can! The 3/4 cup of sugar provides a balanced sweet-tart flavor, but you can reduce it to 1/2 cup or even less if you prefer a much tarter Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish. Just be sure to taste the relish once it cools and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish showcases the delightful combination of fresh cranberries and zesty orange, often enjoyed as a festive side dish. This homemade relish is not only a holiday favorite but also a versatile condiment that can enhance various meals, highlighting the importance of using fresh ingredients in cooking.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Approximate values, based on 1/4 cup serving, for Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish recipe)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80-90 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20-22 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2 g |
| Total Sugars | 18-20 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 20-25% DV |
Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Vintage Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and tangy-sweet side dish that enhances any meal with its fresh flavor and rustic elegance.
Ingredients
12 ounces fresh cranberries
1 large navel orange
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamo
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cool water and discard any soft or bruised berries
- Zest and juice the orange, adding both to a medium saucepa
- Combine cranberries, sugar, water, and salt in the saucepan. Add any optional spices if desired
- Simmer over medium heat, stirring gently until sugar dissolves and cranberries softe
- Continue cooking until most cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes
- Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and refrigerating for at least 4 hours
Notes
For a smoother relish, process in a food processor after cooling.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg