Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe

When the holidays roll around, it’s as if a magical spell is cast over our kitchens, transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary feasts. One dish that always steals the show is the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe. Picture this: a vibrant medley of tart cranberries and sweet pomegranate seeds, dancing together in a bowl like they’re at a holiday disco party. The bright red and pink hues shimmer under the kitchen lights, promising a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.

This relish isn’t just a pretty face; it’s packed with flavor that complements everything from the Thanksgiving turkey to your Aunt Edna’s famous stuffing. I remember my first encounter with this delightful concoction at a family gathering — it was love at first spoonful! Now, I whip it up every year with my kids, who think they’re helping when really they just want to sneak tastes of the sweet-tart goodness. Whether you’re hosting an epic holiday feast or just trying to impress your neighbors, this relish is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary traditions.

Ingredients for Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe

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

• Fresh Cranberries: Use about 12 ounces of fresh cranberries; these little gems pack a tart punch that forms the base of our relish.
• Pomegranate Seeds: One medium pomegranate will give you about one cup of juicy seeds; they add sweetness and crunch.
• Granulated Sugar: Approximately 1 cup of sugar will balance out the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.
• Fresh Orange Zest: The zest from one orange enhances the relish with citrusy brightness and aroma.
• Fresh Orange Juice: About half a cup will help cook down the cranberries and add moisture.
• Cinnamon Stick: A single stick infuses warm spice into the relish without overpowering its fruity flavors.

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

How to Make Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing those fresh cranberries under cold water, discarding any wrinkly or mushy ones. Next, cut open your pomegranate and gently extract those beautiful ruby-red seeds. Don’t worry if you look like you’ve been in a fruit battle by the end — it’s all part of the fun!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine your fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Toss in that cinnamon stick for good measure; it’s basically holiday spirit in stick form.

Step 3: Cook Down

Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries start popping like little festive fireworks. You’ll know it’s done when everything thickens beautifully.

Step 4: Cool It Down

Remove from heat and take out that cinnamon stick (it had its moment in the spotlight). Let your relish cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

Step 5: Chill Out

Refrigerate your Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish for at least two hours before serving — overnight is even better! This allows all those flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon out generous servings alongside your holiday feast or enjoy it straight from the jar (no judgment here). Pair with turkey or spread on crackers with cream cheese for an irresistible appetizer!

There you have it! Your Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe is ready to dazzle guests and elevate any meal. With its bright colors and vibrant flavors, it’s bound to be the star of your holiday gatherings!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping the cranberries and pomegranate seeds, then mix them with sugar and spices. Let them sit while you prep the rest of your meal to enhance their flavors. Serve chilled to keep things refreshing!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a twist. Add jalapeños for a spicy kick or a splash of orange juice for extra zest. Customize it to match your holiday vibe!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To enjoy again, let it sit at room temperature before serving. No reheating needed—it’s fabulous cold!

It reminds me of last Thanksgiving when my family couldn’t get enough of this relish. My cousin even tried to sneak some into his pocket! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table.

FAQs:

What ingredients are in the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe?

The Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe features fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, sugar, orange juice, and zest. You can also add nuts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant, tangy relish that perfectly complements holiday meals. Each element plays a vital role in delivering a burst of flavor and texture, making this dish a must-have on your festive table.

How long does it take to prepare the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish?

Preparing the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish takes approximately 15 minutes. This quick recipe allows you to whip up a delightful side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. After preparation, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to enhance the flavors. The simplicity of this relish makes it an excellent choice for busy holiday gatherings.

Can I make the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish ahead of time. In fact, making it one or two days before your holiday gathering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This convenience makes it easier to manage your holiday cooking while still impressing guests with a fresh and flavorful dish.

What dishes pair well with the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish?

The Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, ham, or even vegetarian dishes like stuffed squash. Its bright flavors complement rich meats and enhance savory sides. You can also serve it with cheese platters or as a topping for sandwiches. This versatility makes it a fantastic addition to any holiday meal.

Conclusion for Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe:

In conclusion, the Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish Recipe is an easy yet impressive addition to your festive table. With its vibrant colors and tangy flavors, this relish enhances both traditional and modern holiday dishes. By preparing it ahead of time, you not only save yourself stress but also allow the flavors to shine through beautifully. Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your holiday celebrations!

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Magical Cranberry-Pomegranate Holiday Relish

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

A vibrant medley of tart cranberries and sweet pomegranate seeds, this relish adds a festive burst of flavor to any holiday meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1 medium pomegranate (about 1 cup of seeds)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Zest from 1 orange
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cinnamon stick

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Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any wrinkly or mushy ones. Cut open the pomegranate and extract the seeds.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, pomegranate seeds, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and the cinnamon stick.
3. Cook Down: Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until cranberries start popping and the mixture thickens.
4. Cool It Down: Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Allow the relish to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Chill Out: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving—overnight is even better!
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve alongside your holiday feast or enjoy with cream cheese on crackers as an appetizer.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 30g
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg