This cranberry mango sauce is a bright and tasty addition to your dishes! It’s sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of fruity, making it perfect for turkey or even pancakes.
Honestly, it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to put it on everything! I love having some in the fridge for quick snacks or a zesty topping. A little spoonful can brighten any meal. 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work great here. If you can’t find them, try using dried cranberries, but remember to adjust the sugar since they’re sweeter.
Mango: Ripe mango adds a lovely sweetness. If fresh mango isn’t available, use frozen mango chunks or try peach or pineapple for a twist!
Granulated Sugar: Standard sugar gives that perfect sweetness. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time, bottled juice will work too. Just check for added sugars!
Orange Zest: This adds a burst of citrus flavor. If you’re out of oranges, lemon zest could be a nice substitute.
How Do I Cook My Cranberry Mango Sauce to Get the Right Consistency?
The key to getting your sauce just right is paying attention while it simmers. Cook the mixture until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Here are some tips:
- Start on medium heat to dissolve the sugar, then lower to a simmer to avoid burning.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help break down the cranberries.
- Keep an eye on the sauce as it cooks; it will thicken nicely as it cools, so don’t overdo it on the heat!
Remember, the sauce will continue to thicken after removing it from heat, so aim for a slightly runny consistency while cooking.
Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp grated orange zest
- Optional: 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon or a pinch of ground ginger for warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry mango sauce takes about 30 minutes total—10-15 minutes for cooking and about 15 minutes for cooling. It’s quick and simple, making it a perfect addition to your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by taking a medium saucepan and placing it over medium heat. Pour in the orange juice and water, then add the granulated sugar. Stir this mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved. This creates a sweet and tangy base for your sauce!
2. Adding the Fruits:
Once your sugar mixture is ready, add the fresh or frozen cranberries and diced mango to the saucepan. Toss in the grated orange zest for an extra burst of flavor. Mix everything well together.
3. Cooking It Down:
Bring the mixture to a lively boil, then reduce the heat so it simmers gently. This simmering action helps the cranberries burst open, releasing their lovely juices. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries start to pop and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
4. Flavoring the Sauce:
If you want to add a hint of warmth, now’s the time to stir in the optional ground cinnamon or ginger. Just a little will enhance the flavor beautifully!
5. Cooling and Serving:
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool. It’s important to give it some time because it will continue to thicken as it cools down. You can serve it warm or chill it in the fridge for later. It’s fantastic with meats, desserts, or even spooned over yogurt!
6. Storing Leftovers:
Did you have some leftovers? No worries! Store any remaining sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just toss them in directly from the freezer; there’s no need to thaw them first.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Sauce?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce. Start with 3/4 cup and taste as you go — you can always add more sugar if needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry mango sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it for storage.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Mango?
Definitely! While mango pairs beautifully with cranberries, you can substitute it with diced peaches, pineapple, or even apples for a different fruit flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may vary!