Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese

Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for your holiday table or as a unique appetizer.

Lena

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:23:02.496Z

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish combines the tartness of cranberries with the aromatic warmth of five-spice powder. Paired with creamy goat cheese, it creates a perfect balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal as a spread or a side, this relish is not only simple to make but also a stunning addition to any festive table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce
  • Perfectly complements cheese boards
  • Easy to prepare and great for entertaining
  • Bright and vibrant flavors that elevate any dish

A Unique Twist on Tradition

Cranberry sauce is a staple on many holiday tables, but this Five-Spice Cranberry Relish adds a unique twist that elevates the traditional dish. The addition of five-spice powder introduces an aromatic blend of flavors that perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries. This fusion creates a relish that is not only delicious but also intriguing, making it a conversation starter at any gathering.

Whether you're hosting a festive dinner or a casual get-together, this relish can set your meal apart. Its vibrant color and bold flavors offer a fresh take on a classic recipe, ensuring that your guests will remember your culinary creativity long after the last bite.

Perfect Pairings

This relish is a fantastic accompaniment to cheese boards, especially when paired with creamy goat cheese. The tangy flavor of the goat cheese balances the sweetness of the cranberry relish, creating a harmonious taste experience. Adding fresh herbs as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces an extra layer of freshness that complements the dish beautifully.

In addition to cheese boards, this relish can be served alongside roasted meats or as a topping for sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a delightful addition to various dishes, proving that it can shine beyond the holiday table.

Easy Preparation for Entertaining

One of the best aspects of this Five-Spice Cranberry Relish is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. The cooking process involves simmering the cranberries until they burst and the flavors meld, making it an easy task even for novice cooks.

By preparing this relish ahead of time, you can save valuable moments during your event. Simply allow it to cool and serve it chilled or at room temperature, freeing you up to focus on other aspects of your gathering while still impressing your guests with a homemade touch.

Ingredients

For the Relish

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

  • 8 oz goat cheese, softened
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Combine all relish ingredients to create a festive spread.

Instructions

Cook the Cranberries

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, five-spice powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

Cool and Serve

Remove the relish from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Serve alongside softened goat cheese, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this unique relish as a condiment or spread!

Storing Your Relish

If you have any leftovers, storing your Five-Spice Cranberry Relish is simple. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy it beyond the holiday festivities. Its flavors may even deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious when enjoyed later.

For longer storage, consider freezing the relish. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Creative Uses Beyond the Table

The versatility of this Five-Spice Cranberry Relish extends beyond just being a side or an appetizer. Consider using it as a glaze for roasted meats, such as turkey or pork, to add a burst of flavor that enhances the dish. A spoonful can also be added to salad dressings or sauces, giving your meals an exciting twist.

Additionally, this relish can be used as a topping for desserts. Imagine a dollop on cheesecake or mixed into yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat. The possibilities are endless, making this relish a true culinary gem.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this relish ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve this relish with?

It's great with cheese, on sandwiches, or as a topping for roasted meats.

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess water before using.

→ How long does this relish last?

When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last up to a week.

Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for your holiday table or as a unique appetizer.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Relish

  1. 12 oz fresh cranberries
  2. 1 cup sugar
  3. 1/2 cup water
  4. 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
  5. 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

  1. 8 oz goat cheese, softened
  2. Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, five-spice powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

Step 02

Remove the relish from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Serve alongside softened goat cheese, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 3g