Mandrin Orange Cranberry Sauce with a Texas Twist
This cranberry orange sauce has been a staple at my holiday table since 2013. It’s not just any cranberry sauce—it’s a rich, citrus-infused tradition that brings a little Texas warmth to every Thanksgiving and Christmas gathering. I first shared it with family, and since then, it’s been passed around at countless dinners, bringing smiles and a punch of flavor to every bite. It has the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and spiced goodness, making it a beloved side dish for all of us.
Ingredients
- 16 oz whole cranberries
- 2 cups filtered water
- ½ cup orange juice concentrate
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
- ¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro
- 2 tsp lime zest
Instructions
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Simmer the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, filtered water, freshly grated ginger, ground cloves, and orange juice concentrate. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook until the cranberries burst, releasing their juices and blending with the aromatic spices. -
Cool and Fold
Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Once it’s at a comfortable temperature, gently fold in the mandarin oranges, chopped cilantro, and lime zest. These ingredients add brightness, color, and a touch of Texan flair to the sauce. -
Serve and Enjoy
Cool the sauce completely, then serve it in a festive bowl to add a pop of color to your holiday table. This sauce is perfect alongside turkey, ham, or even as a topping for warm biscuits!
This cranberry sauce will bring a burst of flavor to your holiday meals, combining the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of ginger, citrus, and an unexpected hint of cilantro. It’s not just a condiment—it’s a way to share a little piece of your history with each holiday meal. Enjoy from our kitchen to yours!
