Fresh Cranberry Ginger Orange Punch
I love when fresh cranberries start appearing in the grocery stores. It is a sure sign that holiday cooking is underway! Cranberries are festive with their bright red color and tart flavor. I love using cranberries in all kinds of raw recipes. Salads, flat breads, even veggie wraps all become a little more interesting and perky with the addition of this little red berry. And talk about packing a nutritional punch.
Cranberries are full of healthy benefits. Naturally high in vitamin C and fiber, cranberries are loaded with phytonutrients. Cranberries specific phytonutrients fight cancer, have antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory properties. They also have shown the ability to protect against UTI’s (urinary tract infections) by inhibiting the bacterias ability to attach to urinary tract linings. Recent studies are also showing that cranberries help support our immune function!
Inspired by these healthy little red berries, I decided to make a punch for your holiday table. Cranberries, oranges and ginger combine to make a delicious punch. This one is easy to throw together and delightful to drink.
Just a note…I was recently on a flight and as usual, requested cranberry juice when the flight attendent asked me what I would like to drink. I always thought this was a little healthier that other alternatives. Well, on this flight, I recieved the whole can, not just a cup. I looked at the can and found that there was over 230 calories and 53 grams of sugar in one serving! One more reason to whip up your own!
Cranberry Ginger Orange Punch
- 1 12 0z bag fresh cranberries
- 6 cups water, divided
- 1 large orange, zest and juice
- 1″ piece fresh ginger, roughly chopped.
- 1/3 cup agave, honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- Place cranberries, 2 cups water, orange juice and zest and ginger in food processor. Process until a slurry is achieved.
- Transfer mixture to bowl and add remaining 4 cups water.
- Let steep in refrigerator at least an hour.
- Strain off into pitcher and add sweetener to taste. Top with orange slices if desired.
Kathy Jones wrote on December 12, 2011
I suddenly feel v-e-r-y thirsty! This sounds wonderful!! Much better glycemic load.
AikoVenus wrote on December 11, 2011
Ooh! This looks really healthy and delicious. ^^ I like to just eat the cranberries (after being rinsed) by the handfuls, but this would be a good way for the rest of my family to get their nutritional goodness.
Susan wrote on December 10, 2011
I am sure you can use frozen berries. When you use the food processor, and let the cranberries steep and then drain off the juice, there is no bitterness and the flavor is wonderful.
Sandie wrote on December 10, 2011
I’m wondering if i can use fresh (frozen) berries? I buy lots at Thanksgiving time when they are cheaper and freeze them….also what about the Vitamix idea? More bitter?
Susie wrote on December 10, 2011
I blended it in vitamix, instead of putting it in food processor. (Ha! Now, there is nothing to strain.) It’s still good, but I am sure the juice is clearer your way, and maybe less bitter. I was not trying to modify your recipe, just trying to remember without looking. :\ I love your recipes and layouts!!!!
Tina wrote on December 9, 2011
My mouth started watering as I got to you page! Beautiful photo of juice, lol! I love the nice light color like Amanda pointed out. I was kinda always against cranberry juice because it is so high in sugar. this is a cool altenative. Thanks!
Jennifer wrote on December 9, 2011
Do you use the zest of the whole orange?
Susan wrote on December 9, 2011
Yes…as is stated in the recipe. 🙂
Allysia wrote on December 9, 2011
I’m assuming that straight-up juiced cranberries would be too bitter/tart without the addition of something sweet, which is why it’s great to make your own – then you can add something like agave instead of a pound of white sugar. I’ve always loved cranberry juice, and this looks amazing!
Amanda wrote on December 9, 2011
It’s pretty shocking how much sugar is in regular old cranberry juice. Your lightened-up recipe sounds wonderful! I love the bright pink color.