Easy Cranberry Sauce

By msippigrl

This cranberry sauce recipe is so easy and delicious that you’ll never open another can of cranberry sauce again!

Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries (Ocean Spray)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• Pinch of salt

Preparation

Step 1

Sort through berries and remove any stems and blemished berries (brown or mushy ones). Rinse with water and drain well in a colander.

Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan over medium/medium heat, bring water, sugar, and salt to a boil; then let boil for 5 minutes, whisking occasionally.

Stir in the cranberries and bring back to a boil; continue boiling 5 to 6 minutes longer, stirring occasionally, or until berries "pop". (It's important that they “pop” to release the natural pectin which thickens the sauce.)

TIP:
For a different flavor twist, after the sauce has finished cooking, stir in 1 tablespoon grated orange zest, 1 finely minced fresh jalapeno pepper (remove seeds first), or 2-3 tablespoons peach or pineapple preserves.

Pour sauce into a serving dish and cool to room temperature or refrigerate until chilled, then serve.

Cover leftovers and store in the refrigerator.