Fresh Gingered Cranberry-Clementine Relish

This vibrant, no-cook cranberry relish offers a fresh take on traditional cranberry sauce. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet clementines, and spicy ginger creates a sophisticated condiment that brightens any holiday table. Perfect for those who prefer a fresher, more textured alternative to cooked cranberry sauce.

Ingredients

Main Components:

  • Frozen cranberries: 12 ounces (340g)
  • Sugar: ½ cup (100g)
  • Clementines: 1 whole, unpeeled, stemmed and quartered
  • Fresh ginger: 1¼ teaspoons grated (about 7g)
  • Table salt: ⅛ teaspoon (0.75g)

Instructions

Preparing the Base:

  1. Add sugar, quartered clementine, grated ginger, and salt to food processor
  2. Process until clementine is finely ground (about 20 seconds)
  3. Stop to scrape down bowl sides as needed

Adding Cranberries:

  1. Add frozen cranberries to the mixture
  2. Pulse 15-20 times until berries are chopped to pea-size
  3. Transfer to serving bowl
  4. Refrigerate minimum 1 hour before serving

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 1-24 hours
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (minimum)
  • Servings: 8-10 (about 2 cups)

Nutritional Information (per ¼ cup serving)

  • Calories: 70
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Vitamin C: 15% DV
  • Antioxidants: High

Pro Tips and Tricks

  • Use frozen cranberries for best texture
  • Don’t over-process; maintain some texture
  • Include clementine peel for extra flavor and nutrition
  • Grate ginger on microplane for finest texture
  • Let flavors meld in refrigerator before serving
  • Stir before serving to redistribute juices

Variations and Substitutions

  • Replace clementine with orange or tangerine
  • Adjust sugar to taste based on fruit sweetness
  • Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
  • Include cinnamon or cardamom for warmth
  • Try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar
  • Add minced jalapeño for heat

Common FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?

Yes, but freeze them first then thaw for optimal texture.

How long does this relish keep?

Refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead and actually improves after 24 hours.

Why use the whole clementine?

The peel adds essential oils and pleasant bitterness that balances the sweet-tart flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store in airtight container in refrigerator
  • Can be made up to 24 hours in advance
  • Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
  • Do not freeze
  • Bring to room temperature before serving
  • Stir well before serving to redistribute juices

Serving Suggestions

  • Traditional turkey accompaniment
  • Pairs beautifully with roasted pork
  • Excellent with grilled or poached salmon
  • Complements roasted sweet potatoes
  • Perfect with sharp blue cheese
  • Delicious on turkey sandwiches
  • Try with roasted butternut squash
  • Adds brightness to cheese boards

This versatile relish brings a fresh, contemporary twist to your holiday table while maintaining the traditional cranberry flavor everyone loves. Its make-ahead convenience and long refrigerator life make it an practical choice for busy holiday cooking.