Five ways to use cranberry sauce, America’s least favorite condiment

Cranberry sauce is so often overlooked at the Thanksgiving table while the mashed potatoes and gravy steal the spotlight. Surprisingly, this much-maligned side dish has been part of American tradition for centuries, offering endless possibilities beyond its original purpose and perfect for being reinvented in unexpected ways.

Despite its deep roots in Thanksgiving history, this spice remains one of the most polarizing dishes on the table today. What is this least favorite Thanksgiving dish? Cranberry sauce.

How cranberry sauce became a Thanksgiving staple

Cranberry sauce has been part of American cuisine for centuries. Native Americans used cranberries in cooking and medicine, and early European settlers followed suit, using the berries in sauces and jams.

In the 19th century, cranberry sauce became a Thanksgiving tradition, although recipes varied by region. The introduction of canned cranberry sauce in the 20th century made it even more popular and cemented its place as an expected Thanksgiving turkey side dish on tables across the country.

Those who like cranberry sauce probably have strong opinions about what form is acceptable. Some people prefer canned cranberry sauce for its nostalgic touch, while others insist that fresh, homemade cranberry sauce is the only solution. Homemade whole berry sauce is the first choice for many because its consistency and taste offer something very special.

A 2021 survey by grocery delivery service Instacart found that cranberry sauce is the least popular Thanksgiving dish: 29% of American adults said they hated it and nearly 50% called it disgusting. This makes cranberry sauce the most polarizing and unpopular dish on the Thanksgiving table. Even though it’s one of the most unpopular dishes, leaving out cranberry sauce from holiday meals is still considered something of a Thanksgiving faux pas.

No matter what type of cranberry sauce comes to the table, there is guaranteed to be some leftover due to its lack of popularity. But don’t let those leftovers go to waste; There are many creative and delicious ways to use cranberry sauce beyond the Thanksgiving table.

Creative ways to use leftover cranberry sauce

Leftover cranberry sauce? There is no reason to despair. Here are some fun, delicious and inventive ways to give those leftovers a new purpose.

Cranberry Grilled Cheese

Cranberry sauce is the perfect complement to a grilled cheese sandwich. Layer sharp cheddar or brie cheese, leftover turkey, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce between two slices of sourdough bread. The tart cranberry underlines the richness of the cheese and ensures a perfectly balanced bite. To feed a crowd, consider making a casserole dish of turkey cranberry slices with leftover gravy and turkey meat.

Cranberry vinaigrette

To make a simple salad dressing, take a mason jar and add a tablespoon of leftover cranberry sauce. Add a splash of white balsamic vinegar and an equal portion of olive oil. Add a pinch of fresh herbs, salt and pepper. Secure the lid, shake well, and drizzle the zesty cranberry vinaigrette over a fall salad with lettuce, Gorgonzola cheese, pecans, and dried cranberries.

Cranberry BBQ sauce

For an easy homemade barbecue sauce, mix leftover cranberry sauce with ketchup or chili sauce, a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and a little brown sugar. The result is a flavorful barbecue sauce that goes wonderfully with cocktail meatballs, fried chicken or pork chops. Guests will never guess that the base of your homemade barbecue sauce was leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving.

Cranberry yogurt parfait

For a quick breakfast or snack, layer cranberry sauce with vanilla Greek yogurt and granola for a simple yet elegant fall parfait. The sweetness of the granola and the spice of the cranberry sauce create a great balance of flavors. For bonus points, add a drizzle of maple syrup and pecans.

Cocktail mixer

Yes, cranberry sauce can be used in cocktails. To make a celebratory drink, shake a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce with vodka, a splash of orange juice, and a splash of simple syrup. Add ice and a fresh rosemary sprig and the result is a tart, refreshing cocktail perfect for the holidays.

We celebrate cranberry sauce beyond Thanksgiving

Cranberry sauce has been a staple on the American Thanksgiving table for centuries. While cranberry sauce continues to be considered a traditional holiday dish by most Americans, an emerging trend shows chefs, food bloggers and home cooks finding new ways to incorporate cranberry sauce into various recipes throughout the year.

At Thanksgiving dinner, where traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, buttered rolls, and pies often take center stage, cranberry sauce may never be in the spotlight. However, its creative uses can make it a standout ingredient in the days to come.

When the Thanksgiving cleanup begins and there’s a bowl of gravy left over, there’s no need to worry. This underdog just needs a little creativity to shine.

Michelle Goth, Associated Press

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