Cranberry Orange Relish (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry orange relish is a vibrant, tangy condiment that has graced holiday tables for generations. Traditionally, this dish combines tart cranberries with the bright citrus notes of oranges, creating a refreshing contrast to rich, savory dishes. This vegan version maintains the classic flavor profile while ensuring it’s suitable for all dietary preferences.
The origins of cranberry relish can be traced back to the early 1900s, when it became a popular accompaniment to Thanksgiving turkey. As the years went by, families began to experiment with different ingredients, leading to variations that included nuts, spices, and even sweeteners. This vegan rendition embraces the natural sweetness of oranges and a hint of maple syrup, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Making this relish is a breeze, and it’s a great way to involve the whole family in the kitchen. Just toss everything into a food processor, and let it do the work. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a colorful, flavorful relish that can be served immediately or chilled for a more developed taste. And if you’re worried about leftovers, don’t be! This relish can last in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
So, whether you’re serving it alongside your holiday turkey or as a topping for a vegan cheese platter, this cranberry orange relish is sure to impress. Just remember, if someone asks if it’s homemade, you can always say, “Of course! I just cran-berry-ed it together!”
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 whole orange
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp salt
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any that are soft or shriveled, as they can affect the texture of your relish.
- Next, take one whole orange and wash it thoroughly. You’ll want to use the zest and juice, so make sure it’s clean and free of any wax.
- Using a microplane or zester, carefully zest the orange, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith. You should have about 1 tablespoon of zest.
- Cut the orange in half and juice it, aiming for about 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice. This will add brightness and acidity to your relish.
- In a food processor, combine the rinsed cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Pulse the mixture in the food processor until the cranberries are coarsely chopped. Be careful not to over-process; you want some texture in your relish.
- Taste the relish and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time.
- Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, transfer the relish to a serving bowl. You can serve it immediately, but letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld.
- If you have leftovers, store the relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead option.
- Serve this vibrant relish alongside your favorite dishes, or use it as a topping for vegan cheese or toast. It’s versatile and adds a delightful zing!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 70
- Carbs g: 18
- Protein g: 0
- Fat g: 0
- Sugar g: 10
