Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce is a classic recipe that brings a vibrant and tangy flavor to any meal, especially during the festive season. Renowned for her straightforward yet delicious recipes, Mary Berry transforms simple cranberries into a sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. This sauce is an essential accompaniment to holiday dinners, adding a burst of color and flavor to dishes like roast turkey or ham.
What is Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce?
Mary Berry cranberry sauce is a homemade cranberry sauce recipe that is inspired by the famous British cook and author, Mary Berry. It is made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and port wine, and it has a glossy and rich texture and a balanced sweet and tart flavor. It is a classic and easy recipe that can be made in 15 minutes and can be served with various dishes, especially roast turkey, chicken, or ham.
The preparation is quick and easy, typically taking less than 30 minutes, making it a convenient yet impactful addition to your culinary creations.
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Why You Love this Recipe
This cranberry sauce recipe is a standout for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: The simplicity of this recipe makes it approachable for anyone. You don’t need to be a kitchen expert to create this delightful sauce. It requires basic kitchen tools and a straightforward cooking process.
- Customization: This recipe is adaptable. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add your personal touch with spices or different fruits. It’s a recipe that invites your creativity.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of cranberries, orange juice, and port wine creates a burst of flavors – a balance of sweet and tart that elevates any meal.
- Fun Cooking Experience: Making this sauce is enjoyable. It’s a straightforward process that allows you to explore and experiment, making your culinary experience both rewarding and pleasurable.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce
To make Mary Berry cranberry sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cranberries: 450g (1lb), fresh or frozen
- Granulated Sugar: 150g (5oz)
- Orange Juice: 150ml (5fl oz), 100% pure
- Port Wine: 4 tablespoons (substitute with red wine, brandy, rum, or omit for non-alcoholic version)
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce
Making Mary Berry cranberry sauce is very easy and quick. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Rinse the cranberries and drain them well. If using fresh cranberries, discard any that are soft or bruised. Measure out the sugar, orange juice, and port wine, and have them ready.
Step 2: Cook the Cranberries
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and port wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. For a smoother texture, mash some of the cranberries with a wooden spoon or a potato masher. For a chunkier sauce, leave them whole.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust the Sauce
Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or tartness according to your preference. Add more sugar, orange juice, or port wine if needed, or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. For added complexity, consider incorporating optional ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla, orange zest, walnuts, or dried fruits.
Step 4: Serve or Store the Sauce
Transfer the sauce to a bowl or a jar and let it cool slightly. Serve the sauce warm, at room temperature, or chilled, based on your preference. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month. Gently reheat the sauce before serving, if desired.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce?
This versatile cranberry sauce complements a variety of dishes:
- Roasted Meats: It’s the perfect pairing for your roast turkey, chicken, or ham, enhancing the savory flavors with its tangy profile.
- Cheese Boards: Spread it over cheese and crackers for an elegant snack. It works wonderfully with a range of cheeses, adding a fruity counterpoint.
- Breakfast Options: Transform your morning yogurt or granola by topping them with this cranberry sauce. It adds a delightful twist to standard breakfasts.
- Desserts and Breads: Use it as a spread for pancakes, waffles, or toast, lending a festive touch to your sweet treats.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce
Achieving the perfect cranberry sauce is easier than you might think. Follow these expert tips for a sauce that’s sure to impress:
- Selecting Cranberries: Opt for fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Avoid canned or dried variants, as they offer a different taste profile and may affect the sauce’s consistency.
- Cooking Technique: Simmer the cranberries just until they burst to retain their vibrant color and shape. Remember, the sauce naturally thickens as it cools, so don’t be concerned if it appears somewhat liquid initially.
- Stirring Process: Regularly stir the sauce as it cooks to prevent sticking or burning at the pan’s base. Scraping any crystallized sugar or juice from the sides back into the sauce enhances its flavor.
- Taste Adjustments: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust its sweetness or tartness as needed. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like spices, nuts, or fruits to discover your preferred flavor blend.
Variations of Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce
Transform the basic cranberry sauce into something extraordinary with these creative ideas:
- Spiced Version: Infuse warmth with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves. Adding citrus elements like orange or lemon zest and a dash of vanilla can elevate the aromatic experience.
- Nutty Twist: Introduce a crunchy dimension with chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds, enhancing the texture. Toasting the nuts beforehand can bring out their rich flavor.
- Fruity Infusion: Mix in dried fruits like apricots or figs for a chewy contrast or add fresh fruits such as apples or cherries for a juicy burst.
How do I store Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce Leftovers?
Here’s how to properly store any leftover cranberry sauce to maintain its freshness and taste:
- Refrigeration Method: Cool the sauce completely, then transfer it to a container with a secure lid. Label it with the preparation date and consume it within a week for optimal freshness.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freezing is ideal. Use a freezer-safe container, allowing some room for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce Leftovers?
Reheat your cranberry sauce easily while preserving its quality:
- Microwave Approach: For a quick reheating method, microwave the sauce in short bursts, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired warmth.
- Stovetop Method: For a more controlled reheating, use a saucepan over low-medium heat. Add a bit of water or juice if the sauce is too thick. Avoid boiling to maintain the sauce’s integrity.
Nutrition value per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 97 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Fiber: 1.8 g
- Sugar: 21.9 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Potassium: 58 mg
- Vitamin C: 10 mg
- Calcium: 7 mg
- Iron: 0.1 mg
FAQs
Can I substitute sugar with a healthier alternative in the cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that these substitutes may impart their own flavors and adjust the sweetness level accordingly. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, as these natural sweeteners tend to be sweeter than granulated sugar.
Is it possible to make cranberry sauce without port wine?
Absolutely. While port wine adds depth and richness to the sauce, you can omit it or substitute it with other liquids like orange juice, apple cider, or a non-alcoholic red wine. The key is to maintain the liquid ratio in the recipe for the right consistency.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones?
No, it is not recommended to use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones, as they have a different taste and consistency. Dried cranberries are already sweetened and have less moisture and flavor than fresh or frozen ones. They will not burst or thicken the sauce as well and may make it too sweet or sticky.
Can I use this cranberry sauce in other dishes besides as a side for turkey?
Yes, Mary Berry’s cranberry sauce is quite versatile. It pairs wonderfully with cheeses on a charcuterie board, adds a delightful tang to yogurt or oatmeal, and can be a sweet addition to baked goods like muffins or scones. Its robust flavor also makes it a great ingredient in salad dressings or glazes for meats.
Final Words
Mary Berry cranberry sauce is a delicious and easy recipe that you can make in 15 minutes with only four ingredients. It is a perfect accompaniment for roast turkey, chicken, or ham, and can also be enjoyed with cheese, yogurt, pancakes, and more. It is fresher, healthier, cheaper, and more satisfying.