Of course! A “bright and tangy cranberry pineapple” combination is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly versatile, working as a sauce, a relish, a glaze, or even a cocktail mixer.
Here’s a breakdown of a fantastic, easy-to-make Cranberry Pineapple Relish/Sauce that you can use in multiple ways.
Bright & Tangy Cranberry Pineapple Relish
This is a fresher, quicker alternative to canned cranberry sauce. It’s vibrant, chunky, and bursting with flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
Yields: About 3 cups
Ingredients
· 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
· 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained (or 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped)
· ½ cup orange juice
· ½ cup granulated sugar (or more to taste)
· ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
· 1 teaspoon orange zest
· Optional Add-ins:
· A pinch of salt
· 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
· 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or cilantro
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, crushed pineapple (with its juices), orange juice, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have popped and broken down, and the mixture has thickened slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Finish: Remove from the heat. Stir in the orange zest and any optional add-ins (like ginger or fresh herbs).
- Cool: Allow the relish to cool to room temperature in the saucepan. It will thicken significantly. For best flavor, transfer it to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Ways to Use Your Cranberry Pineapple Creation
This mixture is a powerhouse! Here’s how to use it:
· As a Condiment: The obvious choice! Serve it alongside roast turkey, chicken, pork chops, or even with baked brie.
· As a Glaze: Brush it over ham, pork tenderloin, or chicken during the last 15-20 minutes of roasting. For a smoother glaze, puree it first.
· As a Cocktail Mixer:
· “Bright & Tangy” Mule: Add a spoonful to a copper mug with vodka and ginger beer.
· Festive Spritzer: Muddle a spoonful in a glass, add prosecco or club soda, and a splash of gin or vodka.
· As a Yogurt or Oatmeal Topper: Swirl it into Greek yogurt or spoon it over your morning oatmeal for a tart and sweet start to the day.
· As a Dessert Topping: Serve it over cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, or pound cake.
Recipe Variations
· Spiced Version: Add a cinnamon stick, 2-3 whole cloves, and a star anise pod while simmering. Remove them before cooling.
· Jalapeño-Cranberry Pineapple Salsa: For a savory twist, don’t cook it! Combine raw, finely chopped cranberries (pulse in a food processor) with fresh diced pineapple, 1-2 tbsp finely minced jalapeño, the juice and zest of one lime, and a handful of chopped cilantro. It’s an incredible topping for fish tacos or grilled chicken.
· Smooth Sauce: If you prefer a smooth sauce, simply puree the cooled mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Why This Combo Works
The magic is in the balance:
· Cranberries provide the tangy, tart, and bitter notes.
· Pineapple brings the sweet, bright, and tropical flavors.
· Orange zest and juice tie it all together with a citrusy aroma and acidity.
Enjoy your delicious, bright, and tangy creation! It’s sure to become a new favorite.