This bright and tasty cranberry mango sauce is a perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Made with fresh cranberries and juicy mangoes, it adds a fun twist to your meals.
You can use this sauce on turkey, chicken, or even pancakes! It’s so fruity and delicious that I sometimes just enjoy it by the spoonful. Who’s judging? 😄
What I love most is how simple it is to make! Just cook the ingredients together until they burst into tasty goodness. It’s a quick way to wow your dinner guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tangy flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen cranberries work just as well! They’ll take a little longer to cook down, so just be patient.
Mango: Use a ripe mango for the best sweetness and juiciness. If mango is out of season, you can substitute with peach or even canned mango, just drain it well before using.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you could use honey, maple syrup, or even a sugar alternative like stevia for a healthier option. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works too. You can also substitute with lemon or lime juice for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Thickens Perfectly?
Thickening the sauce is essential for that perfect texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by simmering the mix after it comes to a boil. This allows cranberries to pop and release their natural pectin.
- Stir occasionally, so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. Watch closely, it will thicken in the last few minutes!
- If you find your sauce is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry—mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir it in and cook for a few more minutes.
Remember, the sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don’t panic if it seems a bit runny at first. Enjoy your delicious cranberry mango sauce!
How to Make Cranberry Mango Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional, for a subtle zing)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry mango sauce takes about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time, plus a little time to cool down. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute meals or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing It Up:
In a medium saucepan, gather your fresh cranberries, diced mango, sugar, water, and orange juice. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. This is where the magic begins!
2. Bring It to a Boil:
Place the pan over medium heat and watch carefully as it heats up. Stir the mixture frequently to help dissolve the sugar until it starts to bubble and boil. This should take a few minutes.
3. Simmer to Perfection:
Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low so it can simmer. You’ll hear those wonderful cranberries popping! Keep simmering for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
4. Add Some Zing:
After your sauce is simmering nicely, stir in the lemon juice and, if you like a little extra spice, the grated ginger. Add a pinch of salt to enhance all those lovely flavors!
5. Final Touch:
Let the sauce simmer for about 5 more minutes while you stir occasionally. You want it to reach a nice thick consistency that’s perfect for serving.
6. Cool Down:
Once heated through, remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. It will thicken up a bit more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first!
7. Serve or Store:
Transfer your bright, flavorful sauce to a serving bowl or a container. You can enjoy it right away, or chill it in the fridge if you prefer it cold for later use, especially as a fantastic addition to your holiday meals.
Your vibrant cranberry mango sauce is ready to impress! Dig in with turkey, chicken, or as a delightful topping for desserts or breakfast dishes. Enjoy the sweet and tangy harmony!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Sauce?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Add them directly to the saucepan without additional water, as they will release enough moisture while heating up.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar by half or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Taste as you go to ensure the flavor suits your preference!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir or light reheat on the stove before serving if it thickens up too much.
What Other Fruits Would Work Well in This Sauce?
You can mix in or substitute other fruits like pineapple, peaches, or even a handful of blueberries for variety. Just keep the total fruit volume similar for the best texture!
