Bright, tangy, and bursting with festive flavor, Cranberry Sauce with Mandarin Orange is a refreshing twist on a holiday classic.
This vibrant recipe combines the bold tartness of cranberries with the juicy sweetness of mandarin oranges, creating a perfect balance that complements any savory dish.
Whether you’re dressing up a Thanksgiving turkey or adding a zesty note to a weeknight meal, this sauce is simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
It’s a seasonal staple with a citrusy upgrade your table will love.
How To Make Cranberry Sauce With Mandarin Orange?
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 6)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Serving bowl or an airtight container
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Boil the Base
In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add Cranberries
Stir cranberries and cook until they start to burst, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Flavor It Up
Mix in mandarin orange segments, orange zest, red pepper flakes, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
4. Simmer to Thicken
Reduce heat and simmer for 10 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick.
5. Cool and Chill
Let the sauce cool, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts Of Cranberry Sauce With Mandarin Orange
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 27g
Serving Suggestions
● Sandwich Spread: Use as a sweet-tart layer in leftover turkey sandwiches.
● Cheese Pairing: Spoon over brie or cream cheese with crackers for an easy appetizer.
● Breakfast Topper: Swirl into yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes for a fruity kick.
● Glaze for Meats: Use as a glaze for chicken, pork, or meatballs for added flavor.
Tips & Variations
◆ Adjust Sweetness: Add more sugar or honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce; reduce for a tangier taste.
◆ Add Warm Spices: Try cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for a cozy, spiced twist.
◆ Mix in Other Fruits: Add chopped apples, pineapple, or dried cranberries for extra texture.
◆ Make Ahead: This sauce stores well—make it up to a week in advance and refrigerate.
You can switch up the citrus by using blood oranges, clementines, or even a squeeze of lime to give the cranberry sauce a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are best, but canned whole berries can work in a pinch.
Do I need to peel the mandarin oranges?
Yes, remove the peel and as much white pith as possible for a smoother texture.
Can I use orange juice instead of whole mandarins?
Yes, substitute orange juice for a similar citrus flavor.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
Sure—store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.
What can I do if it’s too thick?
Stir in a splash of water or orange juice to loosen the consistency.
Conclusion
Cranberry Sauce with Mandarin Orange is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, elevating any meal with its vibrant flavors.
Easy to make and full of festive charm, this delightful sauce adds a refreshing twist to your holiday spread and is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.