Holiday · Recipes · Side dish

Cranberries with Dried Cherries

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My father has an obsession with cranberries during the holidays. Rather than have him resort to cranberries out of the can, I decided to experiment with a new recipe a few years; this was such a big hit at the table that it is now an essential during the holidays. Even if you are not the biggest cranberry fan, I guarantee this will change your mind.

Serves: 6-8 people

Time: 30 minutes (cooking), 1 hour, 30 min (total, with chilling).

You will need:

  • 1 package fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup dried cherries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 cups water

Step one: In a large sauce pan, combine the ingredients and bring to a boil.

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Step two: Simmer for 20-25 minutes until most of the berries have burst and the liquid is syrupy.

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Step three: Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

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Holiday · Recipes · Side dish

Maple Sweet Potatoes with Cherries & Walnuts

This is a great side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas or any winter meal. I cannot emphasize to you how delicious and easy this is. I planned to have leftovers, but not a single piece was left in the bowl despite making two batches.

Serves: 5-6 people

Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

You will need:

  • 2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbs butter, melted
  • 1 tbs lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1/2 cup dried cherries

Step one: Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Step two: Arrange potatoes in an even layer in a 9 by 13 inch glass baking dish.

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Step three: Combine maple syrup, butter, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

Step four: Cover and bake the sweet potatoes for 15 minutes. Uncover, stir and cook for 30 minutes. Add walnuts and cherries and stir. Cook for 15-20 more minutes.