Bouncing Cranberries Beyond Sauce
Every August, we spend a few days camping out in Grayland and Westport, Washington. I love this sleepy corner of Washington, because it is right on the Pacific and because it’s a major cranberry growing region. It is officially dubbed The Cranberry Coast of Washington. Set back from the ocean but within a stone’s throw of the spray, the cranberry fields are flat and unobtrusive. Many of the family farms date back generations.
Last August, we took a few minutes to drive by and snap photos of these farms. We sampled creamy cranberry fudge made by the owner of a local antiques store, and we admired the low lying plants trailing by the roadside. We didn’t have time to visit the Ocean Spray plant in the area, but I did make a mental note to highlight cranberries for the holidays.
I drink R. W. Knudsen Cranberry Juice Concentrate yearround. Diluted in water, it is supposed to cleanse the liver and trim the waistline. During the holidays, I branch away from my usual tonic and reach for those ruby red orbs themselves. Decidedly tart, they lend themselves to many culinary preparations, crafts, and hands-on kid friendly activities.
Chutneys, sauces, molds, and quick breads come to mind, as do cranberry garlands and festive bowls filled with floating candles and cranberries. But, did you know that you can test a cranberry for freshness by bouncing it on the counter? If it bounces skyward, it’s a keeper. If it rolls sluggishly, it’s probably a dud. This activity can be helpful when kids get bored or polite conversation amongst guests wanes.
What is your favorite sweet or savory cranberry recipe? If you need some inspiration, checkout Ocean Spray's recipe section for ideas! Warm Cranberry Wassail, Cranberry-Ginger-Soju Fizz or Cedar Planked Salmon with Spiced Cranberry Relish look good...
Photo by Melissa A. Trainer
--Melissa A. Trainer
Kate McDermott on November 17, 2009 at 06:53 PM
My current favorite is cranberry pie. It's similar to sour cherry pie. Delicious!
Kate
www.artofthepie.com
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