Canning Cranberry Relish Recipe for Easy Holiday Preserves

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making your very own canned cranberry relish! As the holiday season approaches, nothing beats the joy of homemade condiments that add a burst of fresh flavor to your festive table.

Canning cranberry relish not only preserves the vibrant taste of fresh cranberries but also allows you to enjoy this zesty, tangy accompaniment long after the holidays have passed. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and perfect for gifting or keeping on hand for a quick flavor boost.

This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with a hint of sweetness and a blend of spices that tantalize your taste buds. Plus, once canned, it retains its freshness and flavor for months, making it a pantry staple you’ll be reaching for year-round.

Let’s dive into why this cranberry relish recipe is a must-try, what you’ll need, and exactly how to make and can this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make cranberry relish at home, but here are the key ones that make this recipe stand out:

• Freshness: Using fresh cranberries and natural ingredients means no artificial preservatives or additives.
• Longevity: Canning this relish ensures it stays fresh for months, perfect for holiday prep or everyday meals.
• Flavor Balance: The perfect blend of tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and warming spices creates a versatile condiment.
• Ease of Preparation: The recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, with clear canning instructions.
• Health Benefits: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this relish a nutritious choice.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cranberries (about 12 ounces)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 large orange (zested and juiced)
• 1/2 cup chopped apple (preferably tart, like Granny Smith)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for texture)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup water (for cooking)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to aid preservation)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot for cooking the relish
• Food processor or blender to pulse the cranberries and apples
• Glass canning jars (4 half-pint jars recommended)
• Jar funnel to pour relish into jars neatly
• Lid lifter and jar lifter for safe handling of hot jars
• Large pot or canner for water bath canning
• Kitchen towels to protect surfaces and handle jars
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for transferring relish to jars

Instructions

1. Prepare the jars and lids. Wash your canning jars and lids in hot soapy water, rinse well, and sterilize by boiling in water for 10 minutes. Keep them hot until ready to fill.
2. Rinse and pulse the fruits. Rinse the fresh cranberries and chopped apple. Using a food processor or blender, pulse the cranberries, apple, and orange zest just a few times to chop but not puree. You want a coarse texture.
3. Cook the relish. In your large pot, combine the pulsed fruit mixture with sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Simmer gently. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will burst, and the mixture will thicken slightly.
5. Add nuts (optional). If using, stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Fill the jars. Using a ladle and jar funnel, carefully fill the hot jars with the hot relish, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace at the top.
7. Remove air bubbles. Run a non-metallic spatula or bubble remover around the jar’s interior to release any trapped air bubbles.
8. Clean rims and seal. Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw the bands on just until fingertip tight.
9. Process in water bath. Place jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Process for 10 minutes at a rolling boil.
10. Cool and store. Carefully remove jars and place them on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as they seal. Check seals before storing.

Tips & Variations

“For a spicier twist, add a pinch of ground ginger or a splash of bourbon to your relish before canning.”

• Adjust sweetness: Cranberries are naturally tart. Feel free to add more or less sugar depending on your preference.
• Fruit swaps: Substitute the apple with pear or add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra texture.
• Nut-free version: Simply omit the nuts if you have allergies or prefer a smoother relish.
• Use fresh orange: The zest and juice brighten the flavor and add a lovely citrus note.
• Storage tip: Store canned jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within two weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This canned cranberry relish is incredibly versatile and can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• Serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a classic holiday pairing.
• Add as a topping on sandwiches or wraps for a tangy crunch.
• Stir into oatmeal or yogurt for a fruity breakfast boost.
• Pair with vegan cheese platters or crackers for a festive appetizer.
• Use as a glaze or sauce base for slow cooker roasts or grilled vegetables.

For more delicious ideas, check out these recipes: Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy, Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, and Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Making your own canned cranberry relish is a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s bounty while ensuring you have a delicious, homemade condiment ready whenever you need it. This recipe is not only easy to follow but yields a flavorful relish bursting with fresh cranberries, zesty orange, and warming spices.

The canning process preserves its freshness and allows you to enjoy that homemade taste for months to come. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or simply want to brighten up weeknight meals, this cranberry relish is sure to be a hit.

Give this recipe a try and delight in the rich flavors and homemade goodness. Don’t forget to explore more tasty and creative recipes on our blog, including Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide.

Happy canning and happy eating!

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