Delve into a taste of history with the Standish House Cranberry Relish, a delightful creation that offers both holiday nostalgia and a connection to the past. Sponsored by Norman Standish, a descendant of Myles Standish, this relish took center stage at a dinner held at his bed-and-breakfast in Lanark, Illinois, where guests relished the opportunity to savor flavors reminiscent of the first Thanksgiving feast.
INGREDIENTS:
- ¾ cup orange or apple juice
- ⅔ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Dash ground cloves
- 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup golden raisins
- ½ cup chopped pecans
PREPARATIONS:
- In a saucepan, combine orange or apple juice, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a dash of ground cloves.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the cranberries and golden raisins to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes or until the cranberries pop.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
- Chill the relish for several hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
YIELD: About 3 cups
PREP/CHILLING TIME: 20 minutes preparation, several hours chilling
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the sweetness by choosing either orange or apple juice, depending on personal preference.
- For added texture and flavor, consider using fresh cranberries when available.
TIPS:
- Serve the Standish House Cranberry Relish alongside traditional holiday dishes or as a delightful condiment for roasted meats.
The Standish House Cranberry Relish takes us on a flavorful journey through history, curated by Norman Standish, a descendant of the esteemed Myles Standish. Set in the quaint town of Lanark, Illinois, this relish played a pivotal role at a dinner hosted by Norman at his charming bed-and-breakfast. There, guests were treated to a taste of holiday nostalgia, relishing both the flavors of the first Thanksgiving and the warmth of cherished traditions.
This delightful relish begins its culinary journey with a fusion of orange or apple juice, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a dash of ground cloves. Simmered to perfection, the cranberries and golden raisins are added, releasing their vibrant colors and delightful tartness, while the aromatic spices dance on the palate.
Finally, the saucepan is removed from the heat, and the chopped pecans are introduced, adding a delightful crunch and nutty essence to the relish. To reach its full potential, the relish is allowed to chill for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
The significance of cranberries in Wisconsin is celebrated, as the state proudly produces 60 percent of the nation’s crop, securing its position as the top cranberry producer for over 15 years. This little red berry, packed with antioxidants, has captured the attention of countries beyond the United States, with about 30 percent of the total production being exported.
In conclusion, the Standish House Cranberry Relish serves as a delightful reminder of the rich history and cherished traditions surrounding the Thanksgiving feast. Norman Standish’s dedication to sharing a taste of the past allows guests to savor the essence of the first Thanksgiving while forging new memories. This relish’s delightful blend of flavors and textures elevates any holiday spread, making it a cherished addition to festive gatherings and a heartwarming symbol of the enduring spirit of giving thanks.
