Mary Berry Cumberland Sauce

Discover the quintessentially British Cumberland Sauce, a perfect complement to your festive meals. This classic sauce, known for its unique blend of tangy and sweet flavors, is a delightful addition to a variety of dishes, from glazed ham to cold meats. Here, we explore the traditional recipe as inspired by culinary legends, ensuring you bring a touch of elegance to your dining table.

Cumberland Sauce: A Timeless British Condiment

Cumberland Sauce is a celebration of flavors, balancing the sweetness of fruit with a hint of sharpness, making it an indispensable accompaniment to your holiday feasts. It's particularly famous for enhancing the flavors of cold meats, adding a festive note to your culinary creations.

Ingredients for the Cumberland Sauce

To prepare this sauce, you'll need:

• Pared zest and juice of 1 orange
• Pared zest of 1 lemon
• 50ml port
• 150ml red wine
• 125g fresh cranberries, or leftover cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp redcurrant jelly

These ingredients blend harmoniously, creating a sauce that's both rich in flavor and heritage.

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by softening the citrus zests in boiling water to remove any bitterness.
2. Simultaneously, simmer the orange juice along with the remaining ingredients to create a thick, flavorful sauce.
3. Incorporate the prepared zest into the sauce before serving, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.

This method ensures that the sauce retains its characteristic thin consistency, which is ideal for drizzling over your chosen dishes.

Storage and Reheating

Cumberland Sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve again, gently reheat the sauce, being careful not to let it boil, to preserve its delicate flavors.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Cumberland Sauce is relatively light on calories, making it an excellent choice for adding flavor without guilt. Per serving, it contains approximately 67 calories, with minimal fat and a moderate amount of carbohydrates.

FAQ about the Cumberland Sauce

• Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce? Yes, leftover cranberry sauce can be used as a substitute for fresh cranberries.
• Is Cumberland Sauce served hot or cold? Traditionally, Cumberland Sauce is served cold, providing a refreshing contrast to warm dishes.
• Can I prepare Cumberland Sauce in advance? Absolutely, preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoy the rich history and delightful taste of Cumberland Sauce this festive season, a testament to the timeless appeal of British cuisine. Its perfect blend of fruity and tangy flavors will surely elevate your holiday meals.

Original recipe inspiration from classic British cuisine, reminiscent of the culinary style of renowned chefs.