Cranberry sauce showdown: cold or hot? the answer will surprise you!
What To Know
- Cold cranberry sauce is a better choice for dishes that are served cold, such as salads or sandwiches.
- Hot cranberry sauce is a better choice for dishes that are served hot, such as turkey or ham.
- Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, and a pinch of ginger to the saucepan when making the sauce.
Cranberry sauce is a beloved holiday staple, but there’s a burning question that divides households: is cranberry sauce supposed to be cold or hot? The answer, it turns out, is not as straightforward as you might think.
The History of Cranberry Sauce
Cranberries have been a part of Native American cuisine for centuries. They were used to make a variety of dishes, including sauces, soups, and pemmican. Cranberry sauce as we know it today was first introduced by English settlers in the 17th century.
The Cold vs. Hot Debate
The debate over whether cranberry sauce should be served cold or hot has been raging for decades. There are strong arguments to be made on both sides.
Cold Cranberry Sauce
Proponents of cold cranberry sauce argue that it retains its tartness and freshness. The cold temperature also helps to preserve the cranberry’s natural texture. Cold cranberry sauce is often used as a condiment for turkey, ham, or other roasted meats.
Hot Cranberry Sauce
Those who prefer hot cranberry sauce argue that it is more flavorful and has a richer consistency. The heat helps to release the cranberry’s natural sweetness and allows spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg to blend more harmoniously. Hot cranberry sauce is often served as a side dish or dessert.
The Verdict
So, which is it: cold or hot? The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are a few factors to consider when making your decision.
- The occasion: Cold cranberry sauce is more refreshing and summery, while hot cranberry sauce is more comforting and wintry.
- The dish: Cold cranberry sauce is a better choice for dishes that are served cold, such as salads or sandwiches. Hot cranberry sauce is a better choice for dishes that are served hot, such as turkey or ham.
- The individual: Some people simply prefer the taste of cold cranberry sauce, while others prefer the taste of hot cranberry sauce.
How to Make Cranberry Sauce
Whether you prefer your cranberry sauce cold or hot, making it is easy. Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange juice (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and optional ingredients in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool.
Serving Cranberry Sauce
Once your cranberry sauce is made, you can serve it either cold or hot. If you’re serving it cold, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. If you’re serving it hot, reheat it over low heat until warmed through.
Cranberry Sauce Variations
There are many different ways to make cranberry sauce. Here are a few variations:
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, and a pinch of ginger to the saucepan when making the sauce.
- Orange Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of orange juice to the saucepan when making the sauce.
- Apple Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples to the saucepan when making the sauce.
- Pear Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pears to the saucepan when making the sauce.
The Bottom Line: The Cranberry Sauce Conundrum Solved
The great cranberry sauce debate is finally over. Whether you prefer your cranberry sauce cold or hot, there is no right or wrong answer. The best cranberry sauce is the one that you enjoy the most. So, experiment with different recipes and find the one that suits your taste buds.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: How long does cranberry sauce last?
A: Cranberry sauce will last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
A: Yes, cranberry sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply store it in an airtight container in the freezer.
