This vibrant cranberry mango sauce is a tasty mix of sweet and tart flavors. It’s perfect for drizzling over turkey, spreading on bread, or just tasting straight from the bowl!
I love how it adds a colorful punch to any meal, and the mango gives it a fun twist. You might find yourself wanting to keep it around all year, even outside the holidays! 🍗🥭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: These are the star of the sauce, bringing a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of mango. If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen ones work just as well. Just toss them in straight from the bag; there’s no need to thaw!
Mango: A ripe mango adds a tropical sweetness. If you’re in a pinch or can’t find mango, consider using diced peaches or even canned peach slices. They bring a similar sweetness and will still taste great.
Sugar: The sugar helps balance the tartness of the cranberries. If you want a lower sugar option, try using honey or maple syrup. Start with less than the recipe calls for and adjust to your taste.
Orange Juice & Zest: These add a bright citrus note. If you don’t have fresh oranges, you can use bottled juice. Just look for 100% juice without added sugar for the best flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Sauce Is the Right Consistency?
Getting the right texture for your cranberry mango sauce is key! Here are some tips to help:
- Start by boiling the cranberries with water and sugar; this initiates the bursting of the cranberries, thickening the mixture.
- Cook until most cranberries have burst—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- When you add the mango and other ingredients, simmer for a few more minutes. This allows the mango to soften and mix well with the cranberries.
- Let the sauce cool completely; it will continue to thicken as it cools down!
Following these steps will ensure that you have a deliciously thick and flavorful sauce to enjoy!
How to Make Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- Pinch of salt
Time Estimate:
This tasty cranberry mango sauce takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the refrigerator. In no time, you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful sauce ready to complement your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. In it, mix together the cranberries, water, and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Remember to stir occasionally to keep everything combined and prevent sticking.
2. Simmer the Cranberries:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the cranberries have burst, and the sauce starts to thicken up nicely.
3. Add Mango and Citrus:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced mango, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest if using, and a pinch of salt. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This step will make the mango soften slightly and help the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Cool the Sauce:
After simmering, take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool at room temperature. It will thicken even more as it cools, so be patient!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, your cranberry mango sauce is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or even as a unique spread on sandwiches. Enjoy the delicious flavor combination!
This sauce balances the tartness of cranberries with the tropical sweetness of mango, offering a fresh twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Mango for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen mango works just fine! Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the sauce. This helps maintain the right consistency.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Mango Sauce?
You can store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix any separation that may occur.
Can I Sweeten the Sauce with Alternatives?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your desired sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, but it can also be used as a topping for pancakes or yogurt for a sweet, fruity kick!
