Cranberry Harissa Sauce

This Cranberry Harissa Sauce is where sweet meets heat — a vibrant, spiced twist on the classic cranberry sauce. Tart cranberries blend beautifully with smoky, spicy harissa paste and a touch of citrus, creating a bold, complex condiment that’s as perfect for Thanksgiving turkey as it is for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Harissa Sauce
🔥 Sweet & Spicy Fusion: Combines tart cranberries with the smoky warmth of harissa.
🍊 Vibrant Flavor: Balanced with citrus and honey for a bright, bold finish.
🕒 Quick & Simple: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal effort.
🌿 Versatile: Pairs beautifully with turkey, lamb, chicken, or even grain bowls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 small orange (zested and juiced)
• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to spice preference)
• 3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ¼ cup water (add more if needed)
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Cranberry Harissa Sauce

Step 1 – Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add cranberries, orange juice and zest, honey, harissa paste, garlic, water, and a pinch of salt.

Step 2 – Simmer:
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens — about 10–12 minutes.

Step 3 – Adjust & Blend (Optional):
For a smoother texture, blend until silky. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Harissa Sauce

🌶️ Control the heat by starting with less harissa — you can always add more.
🍯 For extra depth, substitute half the honey with brown sugar.
🍋 A splash of red wine vinegar or pomegranate molasses adds tangy complexity.
🧊 Make ahead: Stores in the fridge up to 1 week — flavors deepen over time.

Delicious Ways to Use It

• As a spicy cranberry sauce for turkey or ham
• Drizzled over roasted carrots, squash, or cauliflower
• As a glaze for chicken, pork, or lamb
• Spread on sandwiches, wraps, or flatbreads
• Stirred into yogurt or hummus for a zesty dip

Conclusion

Bold, tangy, and a little fiery, this Cranberry Harissa Sauce is the ultimate upgrade to traditional cranberry relish. With its perfect balance of sweet heat and citrus brightness, it adds a gourmet touch to your holiday table — and beyond. Try it once, and you’ll want it on everything. 🌶️🍊