Cranberries are considered a superfood due to their high nutritional content and health benefits as they are rich in antioxidants, as well as vitamins C, A and K.
The berries come into their own around Christmas, but they are so versatile they can be used year-round in a whole spectrum of recipes rather than just an accompaniment for turkey. Their sour flavour means they can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes including muffins, scones, cakes and cookies, as well as in stuffing or rice dishes.
1/ What a Sauce
Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce combines the sweetness of oranges from the liqueur with the tartness of cranberries. More than an accompaniment to turkey, it can be used as a glaze for meats, a dip or added to dessert and cake recipes.
Recipe: https://www.thefoodblog.net/homemade-cranberry-sauce/
2/ Cranberry Filo Swirl
The filling for this filo swirl combines cranberries with kalamata olives, nuts and herbs. The filling can be made in advance and frozen, then thawed and assembled with the filo pastry.
Recipe: https://www.wildroot.kitchen/recipes/spinach-cranberry-amp-olive-stuffing-filo-swirl
3/ Festive Showstopper
Juicy turkey meatballs, glazed in maple syrup, with a sticky cranberry sauce with hints of cayenne and chilli for a subtle kick.
A great alternative to traditional Christmas fare.
Recipe: https://www.maplefromcanada.co.uk/recipes/turkey-meatballs-in-maple-cranberry-sauce/
4/ Cranberry Crumble
This crumble combines fresh or frozen cranberries with apples for the filling, while the topping is made from jumbo oats and nuts.
Tangy and sweet, this can be served with custard, cream or ice cream.
Recipe: https://tropicalsunfoods.com/blogs/our-recipes/christmas-crumble
5/ Give Bread a Zing!
Try adding cranberries to breads as in this Cranberry Walnut Bread recipe which combines tart cranberries with the crunch of toasted walnuts.
Serve at breakfast, lunch or part of an afternoon tea.
Recipe: https://www.thefoodblog.net/cranberry-walnut-bread/
