As the crisp autumn air rolls in, so does the season for Thanksgiving inspiration. And it’s the perfect time to bring cranberries into the spotlight.
This unique fruit is both sweet and tart, offering versatility that can enhance a range of dishes — from savory sides to delectable desserts. Let’s explore how you can elevate your fall offerings, capturing attention and fans of flavor this holiday season.
Cran You Dig It
Cranberries are a classic fall ingredient, deeply associated with holiday traditions and seasonal celebrations. This vibrant, ruby-red fruit adds a splash of color and a burst of flavor, making it a crowd favorite. According to recent statistics, nearly 70% of consumers appreciate cranberries, yet they are only featured on about a third of menus across the U.S. And while cranberries are most popular in the New England region, where they are a staple on many menus, there’s ample potential to expand their appeal nationwide.
With both dried and frozen cranberry options, you have a sweet opportunity to capitalize on this underutilized ingredient and bring something new and exciting to LTOs and specials.
Sweet & Tart
Cranberries’ ability to swing between sweet and tart is what makes them versatile. Their natural acidity complements rich, fatty foods, making them an excellent pairing for meats like turkey, pork, and duck — proven by the enduring popularity of cranberry sauce at the Thanksgiving table. Adding tart cranberries to a savory dish can enhance the notes of rich proteins. Try incorporating the fruit into entrées like Cranberry and Chili Meatballs or a sweet & spicy take on pork tenderloin with a rich Cranberry Mojo Sauce.
On the sweet side, cranberries can shine in desserts, such as a classic cranberry apple crisp or a decadent cheesecake topped with a sweet-tart orange cranberry sauce. Their tangy flavor cuts through sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast that keeps desserts from becoming too heavy. Incorporate cranberries into pies, crumbles, or ice creams as well for a memorable finish.
Application Applause
West Creek® Frozen Cranberries can be used for a variety of applications across dayparts. With anything from sauces, chutneys, and relishes to dressings and juices, cranberries are the perfect staple for different concepts. Try adding a sweet and tangy dip like Cranberry Mango Chutney to accompany a cheese plate — a small touch adds a big flavor impact. Consider adding cranberry sauce mixed into mayo for a festive spread for sandwiches, especially those with sliced turkey, this time of year. Harvested at peak freshness and flash frozen to lock in flavor, try cranberries baked into bread or other goods for an added burst of juicy, tangy sweetness.
In addition, dried fruits, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, make a fantastic addition to salads when sprinkled over mixed greens or incorporated into a vinaigrette. Level up your dressing for chicken or pork and combine with nuts and herbs for a flavorful stuffing. On the side dish menu, think dried cranberries tossed with roasted vegetables or tucked into grain pilafs to serve alongside mains. West Creek Dried Cranberries are ready-to-eat and can enhance the appearance of new or existing menu items.
Don't forget beverages: From cranberry iced teas to cranberry-infused bourbons, and cranberry-inspired cocktails — cranberry mojitos, mules, or sangrias — the fruit adds a festive touch to the drink menu. Also keep sugared cranberries in mind for a sparkling garnish worthy of the season.
You Cran Do It!
Now is the perfect time to embrace cranberries as a seasonal star. With their unique flavor profile, versatility across dishes, and enthusiastic popularity, cranberries are an ideal ingredient to experiment with on your fall menu. Whether you’re crafting an appetizer, entrée, dessert, or drink, cranberries provide a pop of flavor and color that is sure to inspire this holiday season.
