When people think of cranberries, they often think of Christmas, the holidays, and Thanksgiving tablescapes with a big bowl of cranberry sauce in the center.
This may be a popular side dish for these winter holidays, but cranberry flavor can be enjoyed year-round, and is a versatile staple in a lot of dishes.
Cranberry pepper jelly dip has a sweet, tart flavor with spicy notes throughout, making it a great addition to any dish.
The next time you see this jar in stores and think about the holiday season, try adding it with summer dishes and you’ll be amazed at the flavor it packs in.
It Pairs Well with Seafood
Seafood is a summer delicacy, often always seasoned with lemon and/or herbs and Old Bay seasoning.
Since cranberry pepper jelly is sweet and spicy with some tartness, it makes all seafood more flavorful and bright.
Try adding it to your shrimp for a sweet and spicy dish, or on top of salmon and any white fish for that extra “kick.”
For a simple summer appetizer, “Crayfish Mousse” is great on crackers and only takes 5 minutes to whip up.
So next time you reach for the Old Bay seasoning, stop yourself and reach for cranberry pepper jelly instead!
Adds a Twist to Traditional Easter Dishes
The traditional Easter feast consists of ham, vegetables, and some sort of starch.
Cranberry pepper jelly is perfect for using as a glaze on the ham, as it has a nice sweetness that will complement the salty ham, but not overpower it.
Cranberry flavor and ham tend to pair well since cranberries have a tart flavor that also balances the saltiness of the ham.
Instead of reaching for the store-bought ham glaze or brown sugar, grab a jar of cranberry pepper jelly and brush it on before baking your Easter ham.
Incorporate it into Grilling
Cranberry pepper jelly compliments all kinds of meat very well, whether you are grilling ribs, chicken drumsticks, or a slab of beef.
It also makes a great gravy for pouring over meats, like red wine gravy, pan, or cream gravy.
Just have a jar of cranberry pepper jelly and a grill brush, and spread some on the meat every few minutes so the sourness from the cranberries and the sweet, spicy jelly can soak into the meat.
It’s the perfect summer grill staple for those hot evenings grilling on the patio.
Holiday Favorites
Of course, cranberry pepper jelly is the perfect appetizer for your guests at a Christmas dinner on a charcuterie board with different meats and cheeses.
It’s also a great glaze for the traditional ham and turkey which will be sure to please your guests.
You can also pour it over your favorite cheese ball, and you have a tasty, sweet, and spicy appetizer made for dipping.