Cranberry Pear Sauce

My mom has been making this cranberry sauce for the last couple of years and it has become such a staple at the holidays that the family always requests it. This year I will be with D's family for Thanksgiving and would have missed out on this awesome dish otherwise. Granted we would have the canned cranberry sauce that you slice, which don't get me wrong I LOVE still, but there is something about the combination of the cranberries and the pear pieces that just marries so well together! I made a batch last night for the first time so we could have the opportunity to nosh on this wonderful yumminess, and we both wanted to eat spoonfuls out of the hot pot. (the hubby actually did!)

It's super simple and if you have time this holiday season I highly recommend trying it. It's super simple and makes a wonderful addition to your plate of goodies.


What You'll Need:
2 1/2 Cups cubed and pealed ripe pears (about 3 medium)
1 Cup Water
1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1-2 tsp minced gingerroot
1 cinnamon stick (3 inches) broken in half
1 package (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
1-1 1/4 Cups sugar

Directions:
 1. In a saucepan combine the pears, water, ginger and cinnamon. Bring to a boil.

2. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.

3. Stir in cranberries and sugar. Return to a boil.

4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and sauce is slightly thickened. Stirring several times throughout.

5. Discard cinnamon sticks and mash un-popped cranberries if desired. Place in a glass container that has a lid. Allow to cool, cover and refrigerate.

And that's it! So simple and it just reminds me of the holidays! Now you may notice that the finished product isn't very pretty.....but it tastes good so that's all that matters! What are your favorite holiday foods?