Healthy Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fresh cranberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, and maple syrup (or honey).
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop and the sauce thickens, usually about 10-15 minutes. Adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more maple syrup or honey if needed.
4. Stir in the orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, if desired.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Remove from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
7. Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a serving dish. You can refrigerate it until your Thanksgiving meal is ready to be served.

This healthy cranberry sauce is free from refined sugars and relies on the natural sweetness of fruit and a touch of maple syrup or honey. It’s a great alternative to traditional cranberry sauce and is suitable for those looking for a healthier option for their Thanksgiving feast.