This homemade cranberry red wine sauce is a sweet and tangy delight! With fresh cranberries and a splash of red wine, it adds a special touch to your meals.
You can use it with turkey, chicken, or even as a spread for bread. I love making extra—you can never go wrong with a little more sauce! 🍷
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries: These are the stars of the sauce, providing that signature tartness. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones work just as well. Just make sure not to thaw them before using!
Red Wine: A dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth to the sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, use grape juice or cranberry juice. You can add a splash of vinegar for acidity if you’d like.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the amount slightly since they tend to be sweeter.
Orange: The zest and juice of the orange brightens the flavor. If you’re out, lemon zest and juice can work as a substitute, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Cinnamon Stick: This adds warmth but can be omitted if you prefer. A pinch of ground cinnamon can be used instead, but be careful with the amount; ground spices are typically stronger!
How Do You Ensure Your Sauce Thickens Perfectly?
Thickening the sauce is all about cooking it just right. Here’s how to get that perfect consistency:
- After boiling, reduce the heat and simmer. This gentle heat allows cranberries to burst and release their pectin, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Stir occasionally, but do not over-stir; you want some cranberries to remain whole for texture.
- Keep simmering until most cranberries have popped, usually around 10-15 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems thin when hot!
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a delightful sauce that complements your dishes beautifully. Enjoy creating your special cranberry red wine sauce!
How to Make Cranberry Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup red wine (dry or semi-dry, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 small orange, zested and juiced
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for infusion and garnish)
- Optional: pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cranberry red wine sauce takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and then about 15-20 minutes simmering the sauce until it thickens. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries in cold water. Check through them and pick out any that are damaged or squishy. You want only the good ones for your sauce!
2. Combine Ingredients:
Toss the cleaned cranberries into a medium saucepan. Add the red wine, sugar, water, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon stick. Place the pan on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up to help the sugar dissolve.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Once the sugar has melted, add the cranberries and a sprig of rosemary into the pot. Increase the heat slightly and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. You’ll see those lovely cranberries start to pop!
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Now reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. Stir it occasionally, and watch as the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. You’re looking for a nice, rich texture here!
5. Finish Up:
After the cranberries have mostly burst and the sauce looks thick, remove the cinnamon stick and rosemary sprig. Give it a taste—if you want a little extra balance, sprinkle in a pinch of salt.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the sauce to cool slightly; it will thicken even more as it cools. Once it’s at your desired thickness, transfer it to a serving bowl. For an extra touch, garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary and some curls of orange zest if you like!
This delightful cranberry red wine sauce is a perfect accompaniment to roasted turkey, chicken, pork, or even as a zesty complement on a cheese platter. Enjoy it at your festive gatherings or any time you want to impress your guests!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! There’s no need to thaw them before adding to the sauce; just toss them directly into the pot. They may take a minute or two longer to cook down, but the flavor will be just as delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sauce?
This cranberry red wine sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as it may thicken in the fridge.
What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?
If your sauce ends up thicker than you like, simply stir in a little bit of water or additional red wine while warming it gently over low heat. This will help adjust the consistency without affecting the flavor too much!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance. Just let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you serve it!
