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AIP Cranberry Sauce

AIP Cranberry Sauce

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This AIP cranberry sauce is a vibrant, naturally sweetened side dish perfect for holiday feasts or everyday meals. Made with fresh cranberries, honey, maple syrup, and a hint of orange zest, it’s a refined sugar-free and Autoimmune Protocol-friendly twist on the classic. Serve it warm or cold to complement your favorite mains!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 orange, zested (for brightness)
  • 1/3 cup honey (natural sweetness)
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup (rich depth)
  • 1 cup water (for simmering)
  • 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries (the star ingredient!)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add cranberries, water, honey, maple syrup, and orange zest into a medium saucepan. Stir gently to mix everything together.
  2. Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll hear the cranberries start to pop as they release their natural pectin.
  3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will soften, burst, and thicken into a sauce-like consistency. For a smoother texture, mash some of the cranberries with the back of your spoon.
  4. Cool Down: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a glass container. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating if making ahead.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Garnish with extra orange zest for a festive touch. Serve alongside roasted turkey, pork tenderloin, or even plant-based mains like stuffed acorn squash.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Taste mid-cooking and adjust sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
  • Avoid placing hot sauce directly into the fridge; let it cool first to prevent glass containers from cracking.
  • The sauce thickens as it cools—don’t worry if it seems thin while hot!

Storage & Reheating: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of water if needed.