This Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce is a bright and zesty side that takes your meals up a notch! It’s a perfect mix of sweet and tangy with fresh fruit flavors.
It pairs wonderfully with turkey or ham, but let’s be real, it’s great on just about anything! I love to have it stored in the fridge for a tasty surprise during the week. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give the best flavor, but frozen ones work just as well. If you can’t find cranberries, you could try using pomegranate seeds for a similar tartness.
Pineapple: I love fresh pineapple for its sweetness and texture. If fresh is not an option, canned pineapple in juice (not syrup) can be a good substitute. Just drain it well!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides a bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice can be used, though it may contain preservatives that affect taste.
Sugar: The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on your taste preference and the natural sweetness of the fruits. Honey or maple syrup can also be used as alternatives.
Cinnamon and Allspice: These spices are optional but add warmth to the sauce. Feel free to omit or substitute with nutmeg for a different twist!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
To get that just-right consistency for your sauce, it’s all about the simmering process. Start by boiling the ingredients to help release the juices from the cranberries and pineapple.
- After boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered. This lets steam escape, thickening the sauce.
- Keep stirring occasionally; this prevents sticking and helps mash the cranberries as they burst.
- Monitor the sauce as it cooks—if it’s too thick, add a splash of water. If too thin, let it keep simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.
Remember, the sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don’t overcook it!
Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful sauce takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Ingredients:
Gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to go. If you’re using fresh cranberries, wash them well. If frozen, you can use them straight from the freezer.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, pineapple chunks, and water. Pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice and add the orange zest for an extra citrus kick!
3. Sweeten It Up:
Add the granulated sugar, and if you like a little warmth, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and ground allspice. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
4. Cook It Down:
Start cooking on medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally—this helps break down the cranberries as they burst.
5. Check the Consistency:
After simmering, your sauce should thicken nicely. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more water. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes, as it will continue to thicken while cooling.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your delicious sauce to a serving bowl. For a nice touch, garnish it with a few extra pineapple chunks and a sprig of fresh rosemary. It looks beautiful!
7. Enjoy:
Your bright, tangy Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce is now ready! It can be served warm or chilled and goes perfectly with turkey, ham, or roasted meats. Enjoy!
This sauce is sure to add a special touch to your meals with its vibrant flavors! 🍍✨
Can I Use Canned Cranberries for This Recipe?
While fresh or frozen cranberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned cranberries in a pinch. Just skip the cooking step since they’re already softened, and adjust the sugar to taste since they may be sweetened.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a gentle stir when you’re ready to serve it again, as it may thicken while stored.
Can I Freeze This Sauce?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What Can I Serve This Sauce With Besides Turkey?
This sauce is versatile! It pairs wonderfully with ham, roasted chicken, or even as a spread on sandwiches. You can also enjoy it as a topping for pancakes or yogurt for a tasty breakfast treat!
