This sweet and tangy cranberry red wine sauce is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your holiday meals. It’s made with fresh cranberries, red wine, and a hint of spices!
This sauce is a total crowd-pleaser. I love serving it over turkey or roast meats, and let’s be real, I sometimes just eat it with a spoon. It’s that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for that tart flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use frozen cranberries, but skip the rinsing step as they will be more delicate. Dried cranberries won’t work for this sauce, as they won’t produce the right texture.
Red Wine: A dry red wine is best, but you can use white wine if necessary. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute with grape juice or cranberry juice (reduce some added sugar to balance the sweetness).
Sugar: Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference. Maple syrup or honey can be used as substitutes for a different flavor profile, just remember that they will also alter the sweetness level.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh rosemary adds a lovely aroma, but you can switch it out with thyme or even a dash of cinnamon for a twist. Orange zest is key for brightness; lemon zest could be a good alternative as well.
How Do I Thicken My Sauce Without Overcooking?
Thickening the sauce is crucial for that perfect consistency. Here are some tips to avoid overcooking the sauce:
- Keep the heat on medium to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. This helps prevent burning.
- Stir occasionally but don’t constantly stir, as it could break down the cranberries more than desired.
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so remove it from heat when it reaches a slightly thinner texture than you want.
- If it’s still too runny after cooling, simmer it a bit longer, but watch closely!
Cranberry Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup red wine (dry or semi-dry)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 small orange peel strip (zest)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or a splash of lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of cooking time and a few more minutes for preparation. So, total time around 25 minutes! It’s quick to whip up and perfect for any special occasion or holiday dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in the red wine, add the water, and sprinkle in the granulated sugar. Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together until the sugar is completely dissolved. This forms the base of your sauce.
2. Add Cranberries and Aromatics:
Next, gently toss in the fresh cranberries, the orange peel strip, and the sprig of rosemary. Stir the mixture to combine all the flavors nicely.
3. Cook the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer. Keep an eye on it for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop, and the sauce will thicken as it cooks. This is where the magic happens!
4. Final Touches:
Once it has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat and take out the rosemary sprig and orange peel strip. These add flavor, but we don’t want them in the final dish.
5. Optional Flavor Boost:
If you’d like, stir in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor and add a touch of zing. This step is optional, but it can elevate your sauce!
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the sauce cool slightly in the saucepan. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once it reaches your desired consistency, you’re ready to serve it!
7. Pairing:
This delightful sauce is especially fantastic served alongside roasted meats like turkey or chicken. It adds a vibrant, tangy, and aromatic touch to your meal, making any dish feel extra special!
Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Red Wine Sauce — it’s perfect for sharing and celebrating delicious moments!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used! Just toss them into the pot directly without thawing. Keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook down and thicken.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this sauce one to two days in advance. Just reheat gently before serving to allow the flavors to meld even more. It’s perfect for busy holiday meal planning!
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute with grape juice or cranberry juice. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the sugar level since juices are typically sweeter than wine.
