Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or granulated sugar)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Start by rinsing your cranberries thoroughly in a colander. Pick through the berries and discard any that are soft or shriveled. Zest one medium orange until you have about a teaspoon of fragrant zest. Measure out your maple syrup, water, and orange juice. Having everything ready to go makes the simmering process quick and stress-free.
- Combine the water, orange juice, and maple syrup in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the sweetener dissolves completely. Add the cranberries, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. You will hear the cranberries “pop” as they burst open. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and take out the cinnamon stick. The sauce will continue to thicken significantly as it cools. For meal prep, allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it into small glass jars or airtight containers. Store them in the refrigerator for easy access throughout the week. Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on your meal choice.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes