Cranberries are a big part of the Thanksgiving tradition, yet so many people don’t know how to prepare them. As people are learning to experiment with fresh ingredients, we’re seeing more creative cranberry dishes on the table. If you’re looking for a change of pace from the classic canned cranberry sauce you’re in the right place.

 

• Fresh and frozen cranberries can be used interchangeably, so choose whichever is available to you.
• Rinse cranberries right before using, but not earlier. Wetting them speeds up the decomposition process of the fruit.
• Cook fresh berries by covering them with water and boiling gently until they burst.
• Cranberries are versatile, and can be incorporated into muffins, breads, pies, and sauces. They can even mixed into stuffing for a sweet and slightly tart bite.
• Because of their tart nature, most recipes use sugar or fruit juice to help balance out the flavors. You can also add some citrus peel and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the flavors.
• To incorporate cranberry flavor without the hassle of turning on the oven, dried cranberries tossed into salad or stuffing are delicious, colorful, easy, and unexpected!

Happy cooking!

The Petite Gourmande

 

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