Cabernet Cranberry and Blueberry Sauce

This Cabernet Cranberry and Blueberry Sauce is a unique, flavorful twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Combining fresh cranberries, frozen blueberries, and the rich depth of Cabernet Sauvignon wine, this sauce is the perfect complement to turkey, chicken, or roasted meats. With aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves, this homemade sauce brings a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to your holiday meals. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and will become a staple on your festive table. A must-try for any celebration or special occasion!

This Cabernet Cranberry and Blueberry Sauce is a unique, flavorful twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Combining fresh cranberries, frozen blueberries, and the rich depth of Cabernet Sauvignon wine, this sauce is the perfect complement to turkey, chicken, or roasted meats. With aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves, this homemade sauce brings a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to your holiday meals. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and will become a staple on your festive table. A must-try for any celebration or special occasion!

This Cabernet Cranberry and Blueberry Sauce is a deliciously rich and tangy condiment that combines the tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of blueberries, and the deep flavor of red wine. Perfect for holiday meals or as a unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce, this flavorful sauce can be made ahead and served with your favorite dishes. The warm spices of cinnamon and cloves add a cozy, aromatic touch that makes this sauce even more irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 8-ounce bag fresh cranberries
• 6 ounces frozen blueberries (about 1 1/2 cups), unthawed
• 1 cup Cabernet Sauvignon (or any red wine like Shiraz or Merlot)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves (or to taste)

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: In a deep saucepan, add the fresh cranberries, frozen blueberries, red wine, sugar, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
2. Bring to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and the berries burst.
4. Store and serve: Pour the sauce into jars or a serving dish and let it cool before serving. You can refrigerate any leftovers for later use.

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Tips

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more sugar to taste. Start with a little extra and taste as it cooks.
• Watch the consistency: The sauce will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, add a little water or wine to reach your desired consistency.
• Make ahead: This sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It also makes for a great gift in decorative jars.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spices: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice instead of cinnamon and cloves.
• Wine substitute: If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the red wine with grape juice, apple juice, or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative.
• Berry variations: Experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create your own unique sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen? Yes, fresh blueberries will work just as well. However, using frozen blueberries can help release more juice into the sauce as they thaw.

How long can I store this sauce? Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this sauce will last for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I adjust the alcohol flavor? If you prefer a less pronounced wine flavor, use a lighter red wine, or reduce the cooking time slightly to preserve the fruity notes of the wine.

Serving Suggestions

• With turkey or chicken: This sauce pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, chicken, or duck as a flavorful alternative to traditional gravy.
• Over dessert: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or pound cake for an extra-special dessert topping.
• Cheese pairings: Serve alongside a cheese platter with sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie for a sweet-savory contrast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cabernet Cranberry and Blueberry Sauce brings a gourmet twist to your holiday meals or any special occasion. The rich, complex flavors of red wine, combined with the spices and berries, create a sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. It’s a perfect addition to turkey, lamb, or even roasted vegetables, and its easy preparation makes it an ideal make-ahead dish. You’ll love how it adds a burst of flavor and sophistication to any meal!