Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe

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by Mia Hanry

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The holidays are upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a burst of color and flavor? Imagine a vibrant, tangy-sweet relish that dances on your taste buds. The Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe is here to make your gatherings sparkle. Zesty Citrus and Cranberry Relish Cranberry Red Pepper Relish This delightful dish not only adds a festive pop to your table but also elevates every bite of turkey or ham.

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Every family gathering needs a touch of magic, and this relish brings just that! Picture the aroma of cranberries simmering with pomegranate juice, mingling with spices to create a symphony of flavors. It’s the perfect accompaniment for those holiday feasts, and trust me—your guests will be begging for the recipe! For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This relish is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities
  • Its unique blend of flavors makes it a standout on any holiday plate
  • The bright red hue adds an eye-catching visual appeal that impresses guests
  • Versatile enough to serve with meats or as a spread on toasted bread

I’ll never forget the first time I served this relish at Thanksgiving; my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread!”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

    • Fresh Cranberries: Use plump, bright red cranberries for the best flavor and freshness; frozen can work too in a pinch.
    • Pomegranate Juice: Opt for 100% pure juice to capture that sweet-tart essence; avoid sugary versions.
    • Granulated Sugar: This balances the tartness; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
    • Cinnamon Stick: A whole stick infuses warmth into the mix; it’s like a cozy hug in every bite.
    • Orange Zest: Adds a refreshing citrus note; be sure to zest without hitting the bitter white pith.
    • Pine Nuts: These give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; toast them lightly for extra depth!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water and discarding any soft or shriveled ones. Grab your measuring cups because we’re about to dive in!

Simmer Those Berries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries and pomegranate juice. Stir occasionally until you hear those berries start popping like tiny fireworks—about 5 minutes.

Add Sweetness and Spice: Sprinkle in granulated sugar along with the cinnamon stick. Stir well until everything is combined beautifully—let those flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.

Let It Thicken: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. You want it saucy but not soup-like! Stir occasionally and inhale that intoxicating aroma.

Add Zest and Crunch: Remove from heat and stir in orange zest and toasted pine nuts for that final flourish. The contrast between textures will make each spoonful interesting!

Cool Down & Serve Up!: Allow the relish to cool completely before serving. It can be made ahead of time—just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to dazzle your guests!

This Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings! With its vibrant colors and remarkable flavors, everyone will be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy creating memories around the table as you savor every last bite of this delightful dish! Spiced Cranberry Relish with Cloves.

You Must Know

  • This Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe is a vibrant blend that brightens any dish
  • Its sweet-tart flavors and beautiful color make it a festive addition
  • Pair it with turkey, or use it as a delightful sandwich spread, and watch your guests’ faces light up!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering cranberries and pomegranate juice to release their flavors. Next, add sugar and spices gradually, stirring well to combine while enjoying the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in orange zest or a splash of ginger for an extra zing. Adding chopped apples or walnuts can also give your relish a unique twist, making it truly your own. Cranberry Apple Ginger Relish.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove while stirring until heated through for best flavor retention.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh cranberries for the best taste; frozen ones can work but lose some flavor
  • Balance sweetness with acidity by adjusting sugar as needed
  • Finally, let the relish chill overnight; this allows flavors to meld beautifully

Creating this relish reminds me of my childhood holiday gatherings when my grandma would whip up her famous cranberry sauce. The whole house would fill with sweet smells, and we’d eagerly await dinner, knowing that she was about to bring joy to our plates.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used but may have slightly less flavor.

How long does the cranberry-pomegranate relish last?

The relish stays fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks when stored properly.

Can I make this relish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it a day or two ahead enhances its flavors significantly.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Description

Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish is a festive delight that adds vibrant color and tangy sweetness to your holiday feasts. This easy-to-make relish bursts with flavor, perfectly complementing turkey, ham, or even as a spread on toasted bread. With its irresistible aroma and eye-catching presentation, this recipe will have your guests asking for the secret behind this delicious dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup pomegranate juice (100% pure)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)

Instructions

  1. Rinse cranberries under cold water and discard any soft ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and pomegranate juice over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the berries pop, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add sugar and cinnamon stick; stir well to combine. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest and toasted pine nuts.
  5. Allow the relish to cool completely before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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