Delia Smith Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Delve into the festive spirit with Delia Smith's Cranberry and Orange Relish, a delightful complement to any Christmas dinner. This recipe, featured in Delia's Happy Christmas book, offers a tangy and sweet sauce that can be made ahead of the holiday rush, ensuring you have more time to spend with loved ones.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Delia Smith's Cranberry and Orange Relish is more than just a sauce; it's a Christmas tradition. Combining fresh cranberries with the zest and juice of an orange, this relish brings a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness to your holiday table.

Cultural or Historical Context

Cranberry sauce is a staple in holiday feasting, particularly in the UK and North America. Delia Smith, a respected figure in British cooking, has put her own twist on this classic by incorporating orange and spices, offering a modern take on a traditional condiment.

Ingredients List for Delia Smith's Cranberry and Orange Relish

• Fresh Cranberries (450g)
• Rind and Juice of one large Orange
• Freshly grated Root Ginger or Ground Ginger (1 heaped teaspoon or ½ level teaspoon, respectively)
• Caster Sugar (75g)
• Cinnamon Stick (1½ inch or 4 cm piece)
• Cloves (4)
• Port (2-3 tablespoons)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by chopping the cranberries, either in a food processor or by hand, and then transferring them to a saucepan.
2. Add the finely shredded orange rind and juice to the cranberries, along with ginger, sugar, and spices.
3. Heat the mixture until it reaches a simmer, then cover and let it gently cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Once the cooking process is complete, remove from heat, stir in the port, and allow the relish to cool. Before serving, remember to remove the cloves and cinnamon stick.

Storage and Reheating

This relish can be stored by covering it with clingfilm and keeping it in a cool place until needed. For longer storage, it can be frozen in a plastic freezer box.

Nutritional Information

This cranberry relish is a healthier alternative to store-bought sauces, which often contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives. The natural ingredients in Delia's recipe offer a rich source of vitamins, particularly from the cranberries and orange.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this relish in advance? Yes, it's recommended to make it ahead to allow the flavors to meld together.
• How long can I store the relish? It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
• Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, fresh or frozen cranberries work well in this recipe.

Delia Smith's Cranberry and Orange Relish is a testament to her culinary expertise, bringing a touch of elegance and flavor to your holiday meals. Its simplicity, combined with the depth of flavor, makes it a must-try recipe for the festive season.

Original recipe attributed to Delia Smith's culinary collection.

Enjoy the relish as a vibrant addition to your Christmas table, bringing a burst of flavor to traditional dishes.