What is cranberry Jezebel sauce and how is it used?

Cranberry Jezebel sauce is a tangy and slightly spicy condiment typically made from cranberries, onions, peppers, sugar, and vinegar. It combines sweet, sour, and savory flavors and is commonly served alongside meats such as ham, turkey, or pork. This sauce adds a vibrant contrast to rich dishes and is often enjoyed during holiday meals but can also complement everyday dishes like sandwiches and cheese platters.

How do you make cranberry Jezebel sauce at home?

To make cranberry Jezebel sauce, start by sautéing finely chopped onions and sweet or hot peppers in a bit of oil. Add fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices like cinnamon or cloves. Simmer the mixture until the cranberries break down and the sauce thickens—usually about 15-20 minutes. Cool before serving. Homemade sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage.

Can cranberry Jezebel sauce be made ahead of time?

Yes, cranberry Jezebel sauce benefits from being made ahead of time. Preparing it a day or two before serving allows the flavors to meld and develop more depth. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before serving, you can warm it slightly or use it cold, depending on your preference.

Is cranberry Jezebel sauce suitable for special diets like gluten-free or vegan?

Cranberry Jezebel sauce is naturally gluten-free and vegan when prepared with traditional ingredients like fruit, vegetables, sugar, and vinegar. To keep it vegan, avoid using any ingredients like honey. Always check labels on packaged ingredients like vinegar or sugar to confirm no animal-derived additives are included. This makes the sauce a great option for a variety of dietary needs.

What dishes pair well with cranberry Jezebel sauce?

Cranberry Jezebel sauce pairs well with roasted meats such as turkey, ham, chicken, and pork. It also complements cheese boards, adding a sweet and spicy kick to creamy cheeses. Additionally, it can be used as a topping for sandwiches or burgers to bring a bright, tangy element. The sauce’s versatility makes it a flavorful addition to both traditional and creative recipes.

Cranberry Jezebel Sauce Recipe with Spices and Tangy Flavor

Name: Cranberry Jezebel Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar This provides the primary sweetness that helps balance the tartness of the cranberries and makes the sauce irresistible.; 1/2 cup brown sugar Adds a rich, molasses-like depth that enhances the overall flavor profile for a more complex taste.; 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar Offers extra sweetness with a subtle caramel note, ensuring the sauce has just the right consistency and taste.; 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries These are the star ingredient, providing the fresh, tangy base and packed with health benefits like antioxidants.; 1/2 cup pineapple preserves Brings a tropical tang that complements the cranberries and adds a fruity twist to the sauce.; 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish Introduces a spicy element that gives the sauce its unique kick, making it stand out on any dish.; 1 tablespoon mustard Helps tie the flavors together with a sharp, tangy note that enhances the overall blend.

Description

🌶️ Cranberry Jezebel Sauce Recipe with Spices and Sweet Tangy Flavor offers a unique combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes perfect for enhancing holiday dishes.
🍽️ This versatile sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or as a flavorful spread, bringing a bold twist to traditional cranberry sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup sugar This provides the primary sweetness that helps balance the tartness of the cranberries and makes the sauce irresistible.

1/2 cup brown sugar Adds a rich, molasses-like depth that enhances the overall flavor profile for a more complex taste.

1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar Offers extra sweetness with a subtle caramel note, ensuring the sauce has just the right consistency and taste.

1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries These are the star ingredient, providing the fresh, tangy base and packed with health benefits like antioxidants.

1/2 cup pineapple preserves Brings a tropical tang that complements the cranberries and adds a fruity twist to the sauce.

3 tablespoons prepared horseradish Introduces a spicy element that gives the sauce its unique kick, making it stand out on any dish.

1 tablespoon mustard Helps tie the flavors together with a sharp, tangy note that enhances the overall blend.

Instructions

1-First Step: Gather and Prepare Ingredients Start by collecting all your ingredients to ensure smooth cooking. Measure out 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar into a bowl. This preparation, or mise en place, helps busy parents avoid last-minute rushes and keeps things organized for working professionals.

2-Second Step: Boil the Sugars Place the sugars in a saucepan and set it over medium-high heat. Stir often until the mixture reaches a boil, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step dissolves the sugars evenly, creating a base for the Cranberry Jezebel Sauce that blends well with other flavors.

3-Third Step: Add Cranberries and Simmer Once boiling, add the 12-ounce bag of fresh or frozen cranberries to the saucepan. Let it return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often, until the cranberry skins pop and the mixture thickens. For dietary adaptations, use frozen berries if fresh aren’t available, making it easier for those with allergies.

4-Fourth Step: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup pineapple preserves, 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish, and 1 tablespoon mustard. Mix well to combine these elements, which add the signature tangy and spicy notes. This is a good time to taste and adjust for preferences, like reducing horseradish for milder versions.

5-Fifth Step: Cool and Store Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a container. Cover and chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The sauce yields about 3 cups and can be stored for up to two weeks, perfect for meal prep among baking enthusiasts.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Once cooled, serve the sauce warm over cream cheese with crackers or alongside turkey and ham. It’s ready in just 20 minutes total, offering a quick option for seniors or travelers. For an internal link, if you’re looking for more sauce ideas, check out our sweet potato casserole recipe that pairs nicely with this sauce.

Notes

🧀 Serve the sauce warm over cream cheese as a tasty spread for crackers.
🍑 Substitute apricot preserves if pineapple preserves are unavailable.
🔥 The horseradish adds a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness and making it ideal for holiday meats.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry jezebel sauce,spicy cranberry sauce,sweet tangy sauce,holiday cranberry sauce