Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese

Name: Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon five-spice powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Passport Plate Creations

A delightful blend of tart cranberries and aromatic five-spice powder paired beautifully with creamy goat cheese.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:02:02.218Z

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish is a unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Infused with aromatic spices and paired with tangy goat cheese, it's the perfect accompaniment for your holiday meals or as a festive appetizer.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique combination of sweet and savory flavors
Perfect balance with creamy goat cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great last-minute dish

      

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese is an exceptional dish to serve during the holiday season. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the aromatic flavors of five-spice powder creates a unique taste that is sure to impress your guests. This relish not only adds a pop of color to your holiday table but also serves as a delightful contrast to the richer flavors typically found in holiday meals.

This relish is versatile enough to complement various main dishes, from roasted turkey to glazed ham. Its vibrant color and tangy flavor profile will awaken your palate and provide a refreshing break from heavier fare. Plus, the creamy goat cheese adds a luxurious element, making it an irresistible pairing that everyone will love.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this delicious relish in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for those last-minute gatherings or unexpected guests. You can easily prepare the relish ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together, which enhances its taste and makes your hosting duties less stressful.

To prepare, you just need to combine the ingredients in a saucepan, bring them to a boil, and simmer until the cranberries burst. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for even novice cooks. As a result, you can impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customization Options

While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to suit your taste. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a sweeter relish, you can incorporate orange zest or a splash of orange juice to enhance the citrus notes. These variations can elevate the dish and make it uniquely yours.

Also, the choice of cheese can be adapted to your preference. If goat cheese isn't your favorite, try using feta or even a creamy blue cheese for a bolder flavor. This flexibility allows you to tailor the relish to fit various palates, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Relish

2 cups fresh cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and cook until cranberries burst.

Instructions

Prepare the Cranberry Relish

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, five-spice powder, and salt.

Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.

Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly.

Serve

Transfer the relish to a serving bowl and let it cool slightly. Serve with crumbled goat cheese on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

This relish can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Five-Spice Cranberry Relish, the possibilities are endless. It’s excellent as a topping for crackers or toasted baguette slices, making it a fantastic addition to any cheese board. The contrast between the tart relish and creamy cheese pairs well with a variety of wines, particularly crisp whites or light reds, enhancing your overall dining experience.

For a more substantial option, serve the relish alongside grilled meats or fish. The bright acidity cuts through rich flavors, balancing the meal perfectly. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as a tangy side dish with salads, adding a fresh twist to your greens.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making the relish even more delicious. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to have a ready-to-use condiment on hand for various meals throughout the week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the relish. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This way, you can enjoy the wonderful flavors of this relish long after the holidays have passed.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to being a delicious accompaniment to many dishes, this cranberry relish offers several nutritional benefits. Fresh cranberries are low in calories and packed with antioxidants, which can help support overall health. They are also a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system, especially during the colder months.

The addition of goat cheese provides a dose of protein and calcium, making this relish not only tasty but also a nourishing option. Enjoying this dish can enhance your meals while contributing to a balanced diet, making it a win-win for both flavor and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them before use.

→ How long does this relish last?

The relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, cream cheese or feta cheese can be used as alternatives.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.