Cranberry and Dried Cherry Relish

Everyone has their traditional holiday recipes used time and time again and this cranberry and cherry relish is one of mine.  The sweetness of the dried cherries balances the tartness of the fresh cranberries perfectly. I've been making this relish for at least 15 years and have adapted it to include a little freshly grated orange zest and orange juice for additional flavor.  My family won't let me make any other cranberry sauce.

If regular cranberry sauce is a little too tart for you, give this recipe a try - it's delicious! And, don't even think about grabbing one of those cans! This is easy to make and can be made ahead of time too.

Cranberry and Dried-Cherry Relish

Recipe adapted from Martha Stewart
Printable Recipe

Makes 3 cups.

1 packages (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen but I always use fresh during the holidays)
1 cup dried cherries
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 cup sugar
2 cups water

In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, cherries, sugar and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer until most of the berries have burst and liquid is syrupy, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.

Cover, pressing plastic wrap directly on surface of relish and refrigerate.

Make Ahead: Can be made up to a week ahead and refrigerated.