Cranberry and red wine sauce is an elegant condiment that enhances the flavor of both savory and sweet dishes. The combination of tart cranberries and rich red wine creates a sophisticated and balanced sauce. Whether you’re serving it with meats, drizzling it over cheeses, or using it in desserts, this versatile sauce is a must-try. In this guide, we will explore how to make this sauce, its best uses, creative pairing ideas, and tips for getting the most out of this delightful addition to your meals.
What is Cranberry and Red Wine Sauce?
This sauce is a blend of fresh cranberries, red wine, sugar, and spices, simmered until thickened. The acidity of the cranberries complements the full-bodied depth of red wine, creating a rich flavor that can elevate many dishes. A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir works best, adding complexity to the sauce.
Though traditionally paired with holiday meats, cranberry sauce can be versatile and used in a variety of ways. It’s also a great complement to cheeses, roasted vegetables, and even some desserts. For more ideas on how to use this sauce, you can check out our ultimate guide to holiday sauces.
How to Make Cranberry and Red Wine Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Making this sauce is simple. Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll have a delicious condiment in no time:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- ¾ cup sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 whole cloves
Directions:
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cranberries, red wine, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Adjust: Taste the sauce after 20 minutes. Add more sugar if you want it sweeter, or a little more wine if it’s too thick.
- Cool and Strain (Optional): Let the sauce cool, and strain out the solids if desired. This results in a smooth texture, though leaving some cranberry pieces adds texture and color.
If you’re looking for other ways to make your sauces stand out, consider pairing them with homemade bread like our soft dinner rolls recipe.
The Best Ways to Use Cranberry and Red Wine Sauce
This sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
1. With Roast Meats
Cranberry and red wine sauce pairs beautifully with roasted meats. It’s a traditional side for turkey and pork, but it also complements beef and duck.
- Turkey: A classic pairing that brings out the flavors of the meat.
- Pork: The slight sweetness of the sauce works wonderfully with the savory richness of pork.
- Duck: Cranberry and red wine sauce is the perfect balance for duck’s rich flavor.
Learn more about roasting meats and creating flavorful sides in our meat roasting guide.
2. On Cheese Platters
This sauce adds a sweet and tangy touch to cheese boards. It pairs particularly well with creamy cheeses like brie and goat cheese.
- Brie: The richness of brie is enhanced by the sauce’s tartness.
- Goat Cheese: The tangy goat cheese and cranberry sauce balance each other for a harmonious bite.
For more cheese pairing tips, visit our cheese pairing guide.
3. With Roasted Vegetables
Though often used with meats, cranberry sauce also complements roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
- Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts is offset by the sweetness of the sauce.
- Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tart and rich sauce.
For some fantastic vegetable roasting tips, check out our guide to roasting vegetables.
4. As a Glaze for Meats and Vegetables
Brush the sauce over meats or vegetables before roasting for a glossy, flavorful finish. It caramelizes as it cooks, creating a delicious glaze.
5. In Desserts
This sauce isn’t just for savory dishes. It’s also a great topping for desserts like cheesecake or dark chocolate cake. The tangy, fruity notes work wonderfully with rich, creamy desserts.
- Cheesecake: A classic pairing with the cranberry sauce as a topping.
- Chocolate Cake: Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the depth and acidity of the sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry and Red Wine Sauce
- Choose the Right Wine: The type of red wine you use will affect the sauce’s flavor. For a fuller taste, use a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. For a lighter option, try Pinot Noir.
- Adjust Sweetness: If the sauce is too tart, add more sugar. Alternatively, you can use honey or maple syrup for added complexity.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, ginger, or a dash of balsamic vinegar to create a unique flavor profile.
- Make It Ahead: Cranberry and red wine sauce can be made ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze it for up to three months.
For additional tips on perfecting your sauces, take a look at our sauce-making techniques guide.
FAQs about Cranberry and Red Wine Sauce
What red wine is best for cranberry sauce?
For a rich sauce, use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir. These wines provide a deep, full-bodied flavor that complements the cranberries.
Can I make cranberry and red wine sauce in advance?
Yes! This sauce can be prepared up to a week ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking for the best texture.
How can I adjust the tartness of the sauce?
If the sauce is too tart, add more sugar to balance it out. You can also use a sweeter wine or try honey for a different flavor.