Cranberry Relish
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cranberries – rinsed and picked over
- 1 orange – ends trimmed and cut into chunks, seeds removed
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar (150g)

Instructions
- 1.
In a food processor, combine the cranberries (rinsed and picked over) and the orange (ends trimmed, cut into chunks, seeds removed). Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed, 20–30 quick pulses, scraping the bowl as needed.
- 2.
Add the granulated sugar and pulse just until evenly combined, 4–6 pulses. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover.
- 3.
Refrigerate until the sugar dissolves and the mixture releases juices and thickens slightly, at least 30 minutes and up to 2 days.
- 4.
Stir, taste, and serve chilled alongside roasted meats and holiday dishes.
Cranberry Relish is a bright, uncooked condiment that balances tart cranberries with the aromatic bitterness of whole orange and the sweetness of sugar. The texture is crisp and finely chopped, offering a refreshing counterpoint to rich roasts and savory sides. Its clean, jewel-toned appearance and lively flavor make it a vivid accent on the holiday table.
This relish has deep roots in American holiday cooking, particularly in New England and the Upper Midwest where cranberries are cultivated. The modern version became widespread in the 20th century as home cooks adopted food processors and as cranberry growers promoted simple, fresh preparations. Distinct from cooked cranberry sauce, this raw relish preserves the fruit’s zing and natural crunch, becoming a staple alongside turkey at Thanksgiving and other festive meals.
