Cranberry sauce, a holiday staple, offers more than just tangy flavor to your plate. This vibrant condiment packs a powerful nutritional punch. Cranberries contain polyphenols linked to preventing urinary tract infections and cavities.

Rich in antioxidants, they also boast strong anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests cranberries may aid digestive health, improve heart function and even help prevent cancer.

As a good source of vitamin C, manganese and fiber, this round, red fruit proves that good things often come in small packages. Whether homemade or store-bought, adding cranberry sauce to your meal might just be a simple way to boost your health.

Ingredients

12 oz. bag fresh or frozen cranberries, rinsed, ½ cup reserved

¾ cup water

1 orange, 1 tsp. zest and ¼ cup orange juice reserved separately

¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar

½ tsp. vanilla extract

Directions

1. Combine cranberries (except for the reserved ½ cup) water, orange juice, and brown sugar together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture comes to a simmer.

2. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and continue to cook and occasionally stir until liquid has reduced and cranberries have burst and thickened, about 15 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the ½ cup reserved cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Let cool and it will continue to thicken.

4. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. 

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1/4 cup

Calories: 100

This recipe was created in partnership with CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center and adapted from www.sallysbakingrecipes.com.

Do you want to learn to cook healthier for yourself and your family? CU Medicine readers can receive $2 off CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center Fresh Take Cooking Classes held virtually on Zoom. Use the code CU_MED to receive $2 off these classes. Learn more about community nutrition services. 

Interested in weight loss? Learn more about the weight loss programs offered by the CU Medicine Weight Management and Wellness clinic.