Cranberry catsup is a spiced, tangy condiment that works as a Thanksgiving alternative to plain cranberry sauce. It has more depth, more kick, and pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, and roasted root vegetables.

Recipe Overview

A warm Thanksgiving dinner table set with all the trimmings
A warm Thanksgiving dinner table set with all the trimmingscc by 2.0
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 2 cups

Ingredients

Cranberries simmering on the stovetop into a ruby-red sauce
Cranberries simmering on the stovetop into a ruby-red saucecc by 2.0
  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (one standard bag)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will pop and break down.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
  4. Blend with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) until smooth.
  5. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining skins for a smoother texture (optional).
  6. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate. Keeps for up to 3 weeks.

Tips

  • Make this a day or two before Thanksgiving — the flavor improves as it sits.
  • For a smoky twist, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • Serve it in a small bowl alongside the turkey, or use it as a glaze on ham during the last 20 minutes of roasting.

Check out more seasonal condiment recipes on our catsup recipes page.