Cheese And Cranberry Relish: A Perfect Pairing

Cranberry relish is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of cheeses to create delicious appetizers, snacks, or party dishes. The sweet and tangy cranberry relish complements a range of cheese options, from creamy cheeses like cream cheese and brie to sharper options like cheddar and Manchego. The relish can be served as a topping, dip, or spread, and is particularly popular during the holiday season.

Cranberry relish and cream cheese

Ingredients

For the cranberry relish, you will need fresh cranberries, sugar, and a source of liquid such as water or lemon/lime juice. You can also add some spice with a jalapeño pepper, and enhance the flavour with ingredients like green onions, cilantro, cumin, and orange/lime zest.

For the cream cheese part of the dish, you will need softened cream cheese, and you can also add shredded Mexican cheese.

Preparation

To make the cranberry relish, start by processing the cranberries in a food processor until they are finely chopped. You can then add the remaining ingredients and pulse until everything is well combined. This mixture should be refrigerated for at least a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavours to meld.

For the cream cheese, simply beat the cream cheese with a wooden spoon or spatula until it is well blended. You can also add in other cheeses or spices to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Once your cranberry relish and cream cheese are prepared, it's time to assemble and serve! Here are some suggestions:

• Spread the cream cheese on a serving plate or pie dish, and top it with the cranberry relish.
• Spoon the cranberry relish over a block of cream cheese, and serve with crackers or apple slices on the side.
• Form the cream cheese into a log shape, and carefully spoon the cranberry relish on top, pressing it to cover. Serve with crackers or toasted bread.

You can also get creative and use this combination as a dip, spread, or stuffing for won-tons or pinwheel sandwiches. It pairs well with salty crackers, pretzel crisps, or sweet apple slices.

Variations

There are many ways to customise this dish to your taste:

• Add some heat with jalapeño pepper, or other spices like cumin or chilli powder.
• Try using different types of cheese, such as goat cheese, brie, or chevre.
• Experiment with different types of crackers, bread, or chips for dipping or spreading.
• For a sweeter version, add some apricot preserves or jam to the cranberry relish.
• Include some crunch with chopped pecans or walnuts.

So, there you have it! Cranberry relish and cream cheese is a versatile and delicious combination that can be prepared in many ways. Get creative, and enjoy this tasty treat with your friends and family.

What crackers to serve with cranberry relish

When it comes to crackers to serve with cranberry relish, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas to elevate your next meal or gathering:

Ritz Crackers

Ritz crackers are a popular choice for cranberry relish due to their buttery flavour and light, crispy texture. They serve as the perfect base for the appetizer, complementing the rich and creamy cheese.

Water Crackers

Water crackers are another option to consider. They provide a neutral base that won't overpower the other flavours in your appetizer.

Gluten-Free Crackers

If you're catering to guests with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free crackers. Many brands offer tasty gluten-free crackers that provide the same crunchy base as their gluten-containing counterparts.

Keto Parmesan Cheese Crisps

For those watching their carb intake, keto parmesan cheese crisps are a fantastic option. They pair surprisingly well with cranberry relish and cheese, adding a savoury crunch to your bite-sized treats.

Customisation Ideas

You can easily customise your cranberry relish crackers by adding a sprinkle of nuts, a dash of honey, or even a slice of fruit. For a sophisticated touch, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to each cracker. If you're feeling adventurous, add a slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

No matter which cracker you choose, the combination of sweet and tangy cranberry relish with creamy, rich cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How to prepare cranberries for cranberry relish

Cranberry relish is a delicious condiment that can be made in a variety of ways and served with a range of dishes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare cranberries for a cranberry relish:

Step 1: Choose Your Cranberries

Select fresh, good-quality cranberries for your relish. Rinse the cranberries in a colander and discard any that are damaged or bruised.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients and Tools

The beauty of cranberry relish is its simplicity. Besides cranberries, typical ingredients include an orange, sugar, and sometimes apples or other fruits and spices. You will also need a food processor, grinder, or blender to chop and mix the ingredients.

Step 3: Chop and Mix the Ingredients

If using a food processor or grinder, cut the ends off the orange(s) and any apples, and core the apples. Leave the peel on the oranges and apples, as this adds flavour and colour to your relish. Cut the oranges and apples into wedges or slices.

Place the cranberries, oranges, apples (if using), and sugar into your food processor, grinder, or blender. Pulse or blend until the mixture is smooth or finely chopped, adding more sugar to taste. You can also add other ingredients, such as pecans, raisins, or spices like cinnamon, at this stage.

Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve

Once you have achieved your desired consistency, transfer the cranberry relish to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Cranberry relish is delicious served with roast turkey, chicken, or pork, or spread on sandwiches and wraps. It can also be stirred into yoghurt or used as a topping for ice cream or oatmeal.

How long to chill cranberry relish

Cranberry relish is a delicious condiment that can be made ahead of time and stored for future use. When making cranberry relish, it is important to allow it to chill in the refrigerator before serving. But how long does it need to chill for?

The chilling time for cranberry relish can vary depending on the specific recipe and the desired consistency. Some recipes recommend chilling the cranberry relish for at least one hour before serving, while others suggest chilling it for at least two hours or even overnight. Chilling the cranberry relish allows the flavours to blend and enhances the taste. It also helps the relish to thicken and set, resulting in a more appealing texture.

In terms of storage, cranberry relish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container. This makes it a convenient option for making ahead of time and serving at a later date. If you want to store it for an extended period, cranberry relish can be frozen for up to two to three months. However, it is important to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before using it.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your cranberry relish is chilled adequately and stored properly, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavour and texture whenever you desire.

What to serve with cranberry relish

Cranberry relish is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways and paired with a variety of cheeses. Here are some ideas on what to serve with cranberry relish to elevate your dining experience:

Cheeses

Cranberry relish pairs well with a variety of cheeses, and you can choose based on your preference for creamy or sharp, salty or pungent flavours. Here are some options:

• Cream Cheese: The richness of cream cheese balances the sweetness and tartness of cranberry relish. It can be served as a dip, spread, or stuffing in won-tons or sandwiches.
• Brie: Brie is a classic pairing with cranberry relish, as its creaminess complements the tartness of the cranberries.
• Goat Cheese: Goat cheese, also known as chevre, offers a tangy and creamy contrast to the relish.
• Blue Cheese: Blue cheese adds a salty funk that accentuates the cranberry relish.
• Smoked Gouda or Provolone: These smoked cheeses bring a savoury, smoky dimension to the relish.
• Cheddar: A sharp cheddar can stand up to the cranberry relish, especially if it is on the sweeter side.
• Manchego or Mahon: Spanish cheeses like Manchego or young Mahon are excellent choices for a unique flavour profile.

Other Foods

In addition to cheeses, cranberry relish can be served with:

• Crackers: Salty crackers provide a crunchy contrast to the relish and can be used for dipping or spreading.
• Pretzel Crisps or Chips: The saltiness of pretzel crisps or chips enhances the flavours of the cranberry relish.
• Apple Slices: Sweet and crisp apple slices make a refreshing companion to the relish.
• Bread: Torn bits of Italian or French bread, or toasted bread, can be used for dipping or spreading the relish.
• Sandwiches: Cranberry relish can be a delicious addition to sandwiches, especially when paired with cheeses like brie or cream cheese.
• Spices: Jalapeno, cumin, or cilantro can be added to the cranberry relish for a spicy kick.

Recipes

• Cranberry-Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip: This dip combines cream cheese with a cranberry mixture that includes jalapeno, green onions, cilantro, sugar, cumin, and lemon juice. It is served with crackers and is perfect for holiday parties.
• Cream Cheese Log with Sweet-and-Spicy Cranberry Relish: This recipe features a cream cheese log coated in a cranberry relish made with jalapeno, scallions, orange zest, and lime zest. It is served with crackers or toasted bread.
• Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread: This spread combines cream cheese with a cranberry mixture that includes apricot preserves and chopped pecans. It is served with buttery crackers or pretzel chips and garnished with fresh mint.

Frequently asked questions