This tangy Cranberry Mango Sauce is a fresh twist on a classic favorite! With bright cranberries and sweet mango, it adds a burst of flavor to any dish.
I love serving this sauce with turkey or chicken—it makes my meals feel special. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so I can impress my guests without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe as they provide the right tartness. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen cranberries work just as well. Just make sure to rinse them before use!
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and a tropical twist. If mangos are not in season, you can use canned mango or even pineapple for a fun variation, though the flavor will be different.
Granulated Sugar: Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference. For a healthier alternative, you could use honey or maple syrup—just keep in mind they will affect the overall flavor slightly.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice really enhances the sauce’s flavor. If you’re short on fresh oranges, bottled juice can be used, but opt for unsweetened varieties to maintain balance.
How Do I Make the Sauce Thick Enough?
Getting the right thickness for your cranberry mango sauce is key! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that perfect texture:
- Cook on Medium Heat: Start at medium heat to bring the mixture to a lively boil. This helps release the natural pectin in the cranberries, essential for thickening.
- Watch for Bursting Berries: Let the cranberries cook until they start bursting. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cool to Thicken: After removing from heat, let the sauce rest. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny right after cooking!
With these techniques, your sauce will be the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, ready to elevate any dish!
How to Make Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 15 minutes cooking the sauce. It’s a quick and easy way to add a burst of flavor to your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan:
Start by gathering a medium saucepan. Add the fresh cranberries, diced mango, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest together. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll want to stir occasionally so that the sugar dissolves properly and the cranberries begin to soften.
3. Simmer the Sauce:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Keep an eye on it for about 10-15 minutes, stirring every so often. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries have burst and the sauce appears slightly thickened.
4. Add Cinnamon and Adjust Sweetness:
If you like a hint of spice, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. Taste your sauce at this point and add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Once it’s at your desired consistency, transfer it to a serving bowl.
6. Enjoy:
You can serve the cranberry mango sauce warm or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing treat. It’s perfect with turkey, chicken, or even as a colorful topping for toast or desserts. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking, and you may need to slightly adjust the cooking time since they may take a little longer to burst.
How Can I Make This Sauce Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar to your taste—start with 1/3 cup and adjust as needed. The natural tartness from the cranberries will still shine through!
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, this sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving; the flavors will meld beautifully as it sits.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using!
