This bright and zesty cranberry mango sauce is perfect for your holiday table. It’s made with tart cranberries and sweet mango, giving it a delightful balance of flavors!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just simmer everything together! It’s a fantastic topping for turkey and even tasty on toast. Who knew sauce could be this fun? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are a must for that tart flavor. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries work just as well. Just remember, they may need a little longer to cook. I usually keep a bag in my freezer for quick sauce preparation!
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and a tropical flair. If mango isn’t in season, you can use canned mango slices (in juice or light syrup). Just remember to drain them well before adding!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typical for sweetness. You can substitute with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative if you prefer a different flavor or have dietary needs. Adjust the amount based on your taste!
Orange Juice and Zest: These ingredients brighten the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, lemon juice can work too, but it will be a bit more tart.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the right thickness for your cranberry mango sauce is important. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with medium heat to ensure the mixture gets hot enough to bubble.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; don’t rush it! The cranberries will start popping, which helps create the right texture.
- If you find the sauce is too runny, cook it a few more minutes. It will thicken as it cools, so keep that in mind!
Don’t hesitate to taste it along the way. You can adjust the sweetness or add more orange juice if needed. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint or orange peel, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cranberry mango sauce takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 5-10 minutes gathering and chopping your ingredients, and then around 15 minutes simmering everything together. It’s quick and easy, perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen cranberries, diced mango, granulated sugar, and water. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Wait for the mixture to come to a rolling boil. This will kickstart the cooking process!
3. Simmer the Sauce:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low so that it gently simmers. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pan. The cranberries will start to pop, releasing their juices into the sauce.
4. Add Flavors:
After a few minutes, add in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest (if using), ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You want to cook it until it thickens to your liking, and the mango pieces have softened but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to help it along.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly—don’t worry, it will thicken up even more as it cools! Then, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you fancy, garnish your cranberry mango sauce with fresh mint or a strip of orange peel for a lovely touch. You can serve it warm or chill it in the fridge before serving it alongside turkey, chicken, or whatever you love!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful cranberry mango sauce! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Mango Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen mango! Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the sauce. This helps maintain the right consistency.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry mango sauce up to three days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If the sauce is too tart for your liking, feel free to add more sugar or a sweetener of your choice. Start with a tablespoon at a time, taste, and adjust until it’s just right for you!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat it gently on the stove or enjoy it cold as a topping for yogurt or toast!
