Name: Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 bag (12 oz.) fresh cranberries; 2 cups (16 oz.) POM pomegranate juice; 1/2-3 /4 cups sugar (depending on your preferred level of sweetness); seeds from 1 pomegranate (optional); 1 medium saucepan; Stirring spoon

The secret to a truly outstanding cranberry pomegranate sauce lies in the balance of tart fruit and just enough sweetness, coupled with the bright burst of fresh pomegranate seeds. This recipe ensures a jewel-toned, flavorful condiment that will steal the show at any holiday gathering. Crafting cranberry pomegranate sauce from scratch allows you to control the sugar level and incorporate fresh flavors that surpass any store-bought alternative. I found that simmering for precisely 20 minutes after reaching a boil gives the perfect consistency, not too runny and not overly thick.

⏱ Time: 25 min

👥 Servings: 6-8

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 6 ingredients

Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Sauce

Cranberry Pomegranate Sauce: make this bright, tart-sweet side dish in under 30 minutes. Perfect for holiday meals and easy to prepare.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 8

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 bag (12 oz.) fresh cranberries
2 cups (16 oz.) POM pomegranate juice
1/2-3 /4 cups sugar (depending on your preferred level of sweetness)
seeds from 1 pomegranate (optional)
1 medium saucepan
Stirring spoon

Method

In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, pomegranate juice, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the optional pomegranate seeds.
Allow the sauce to cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to serve. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Notes

– For a smoother sauce, you can press it through a fine-mesh sieve after simmering, before adding the fresh pomegranate seeds.
– If you prefer a less tart sauce, start with 1/2 cup sugar and taste before adding more. Cranberries vary in tartness.
– When selecting pomegranates for seeds, choose heavy, round fruits with smooth, unblemished skin for the juiciest arils. I once picked a lighter one and barely got any seeds.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

For a smoother sauce, you can press it through a fine-mesh sieve after simmering, before adding the fresh pomegranate seeds.
If you prefer a less tart sauce, start with 1/2 cup sugar and taste before adding more. Cranberries vary in tartness.
When selecting pomegranates for seeds, choose heavy, round fruits with smooth, unblemished skin for the juiciest arils. I once picked a lighter one and barely got any seeds.

This cranberry pomegranate sauce is a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday spread. Experiment with a hint of orange zest or a cinnamon stick during simmering for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy!