master-cooks | Duff Goldman's Advice To Level Up Canned Cranberry Sauce

Duff Goldman offers a creative approach to elevating canned cranberry sauce, transforming this simple side dish into a more sophisticated and flavorful component of any meal. He suggests starting by removing the cranberry sauce from the can and slicing it into rounds or chunks for easier handling and presentation. To enhance its flavor, Goldman recommends incorporating fresh or frozen cranberries for added texture and tartness. Adding citrus elements can further brighten the dish, with options like orange zest or a splash of fresh orange juice providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the canned sauce. Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can introduce warmth and depth, making the sauce more aromatic and complex. For an extra layer of richness, a touch of brandy or port can be stirred in, adding a subtle boozy note. Finally, garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can lend an earthy finish, complementing the sauce's natural flavors. By following these simple enhancements, one can transform canned cranberry sauce into a gourmet accompaniment that stands out on any festive table.

More flavors for canned cranberry sauce

Once you've removed your cranberry from the can, there are still numerous ways to enhance it. Duff Goldman shares a few of his preferred methods for preparing cranberry sauce, even though he sometimes enjoys the straightforwardness of the canned variety. "I add some orange zest, a generous amount of sugar, and a pinch of salt," he explained to Tasting Table. "I make it taste great, but the canned version is simply cranberries and sugar—nothing unusual in there, and I appreciate that. I enjoy its texture and smoothness."

Incorporating orange zest, orange juice, or even an orange peel can significantly enhance the flavor of canned sauce, particularly if you use sweeter varieties like navel or Valencia oranges. Cranberries are naturally quite tart, which is why adding sugar or another sweetener is essential for making them more enjoyable. For an extra zing, lemon juice is also effective, and cinnamon is a popular addition to elevate the flavor of canned cranberry sauce. A splash of tangy lemon juice can complement various fruits and infuse cranberry sauce with vibrant flavors.

Static Media owns and operates Chowhound and Tasting Table.

Duff Goldman's Advice To Level Up Canned Cranberry Sauce

More flavors for canned cranberry sauce

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