This sweet and tangy cranberry mango sauce is the perfect addition to your holiday table. It combines juicy mangoes and tart cranberries for a colorful and tasty treat!
I love to slather it on turkey sandwiches or just enjoy it straight from the jar. Warning: it might disappear quicker than you think! 😂
This sauce is super easy to make. Just simmer the ingredients until they soften. I like to prepare a big batch ahead of time so I always have some on hand to brighten up any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for that tart flavor. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries work well too. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before use.
Mango: Ripe fresh mango gives a sweet punch. If mango isn’t available, try using canned mango puree or even peach slices for a different twist!
Granulated Sugar: You can adjust the sugar based on your taste or use honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative. Just remember that different sweeteners may change the consistency a little.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the sauce. Boxed juice works in a pinch. You can also substitute apple juice or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Your Cranberries Burst Perfectly?
The key to perfectly bursting cranberries is to simmer them just right. While cooking, they will pop open and release their juices, which helps thicken the sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by bringing the mixture to a boil; this wakes up the cranberries nicely.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. This allows the cranberries to burst slowly without burning.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and help dissolve the sugar.
After about 10-15 minutes, you should see the cranberries fully burst, creating that lovely sauce texture you’re aiming for!
How to Make Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Sauce:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- A small sprig of fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, set aside about 25-30 minutes to make this delicious sauce. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Drain them well and set aside. This step ensures you remove any dirt or debris.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, diced mango, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, and the optional ground cinnamon if you’d like to add a warm flavor to your sauce.
3. Cooking the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. This allows the cranberries to soften and burst, releasing their juices into the sauce.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Cook the sauce uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries will burst and the mixture will thicken nicely. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash some of the cranberries with the back of a spoon as it cooks.
5. Cooling Time:
Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools down. Yum!
6. Serving and Storing:
Transfer the cranberry mango sauce to a bowl or jar. If you’d like, garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely presentation. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.
7. Enjoy!
This flavorful sauce goes perfectly with roasted turkey, chicken, or even as a bright addition to your holiday meals. You might even find it great on your morning toast! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen cranberries usually release more liquid.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the sugar to one cup or more, depending on your taste. Conversely, if you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.
Can I Make This Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the cranberry mango sauce ahead of time! It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving!
What Are Some Other Ways to Use This Sauce?
This sauce is versatile! Besides serving it with turkey or chicken, it’s great on sandwiches, pancakes, or even as a topping for cheesecake or yogurt. Get creative!
