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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon five-spice powder; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 4 ounces goat cheese; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Harvest Cooking

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.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:46:02.635Z

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish is a perfect blend of tart cranberries and aromatic five-spice powder, paired beautifully with creamy goat cheese. It's an excellent addition to any cheese board or as a condiment for roasted meats.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce
Balanced flavor profile with sweet, savory, and tangy notes
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great last-minute addition

      

A Unique Twist on Tradition

Cranberry sauce is a staple on holiday tables, but this Five-Spice Cranberry Relish adds a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests. The incorporation of five-spice powder infuses the relish with warm, aromatic flavors that complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. This innovative approach brings a new life to a classic dish, making it not just a side but a conversation starter.

By blending traditional ingredients with unexpected spices, you create a memorable experience. This relish not only pairs well with turkey but also elevates cheese boards, sandwiches, and festive charcuterie spreads. Your holiday gatherings will be forever changed with this delightful addition.

Flavor Harmony

The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes in this relish makes it a standout. The sweetness from the sugar contrasts perfectly with the natural tartness of the cranberries, while the five-spice powder introduces depth and complexity. Lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, tying all the flavors together. This medley creates a harmonious taste that enhances any dish it accompanies.

Whether you serve it alongside roasted meats or as a topping for creamy goat cheese, this relish brings a sophisticated flavor profile that’s sure to impress. It’s an excellent way to stimulate the palate, inviting guests to savor each bite.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

In today's fast-paced world, having quick and easy recipes is essential, especially during the busy holiday season. This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish can be prepared in just a few simple steps, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your festive menu. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this delicious relish without any stress.

Additionally, this relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This makes it an ideal choice for holiday meal prep, freeing up your time for other important tasks. Impress your guests without the hassle!

Ingredients

Cranberry Relish Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Serving

4 ounces goat cheese
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Mix ingredients well and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Instructions

Cook the Cranberries

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

Add Lemon Juice

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Allow the relish to cool to room temperature.

Serve with Goat Cheese

Spread the goat cheese on a serving platter and top with the cranberry relish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this relish as a spread or condiment!

Serving Suggestions

This Five-Spice Cranberry Relish is incredibly versatile. While it shines as a topping for goat cheese, it can also be served with a variety of cheeses, including brie or cheddar, making it a perfect companion for cheese boards. Pair it with crackers or toasted bread for a delightful appetizer that your guests will love.

For those looking to elevate their holiday meal, consider using this relish as a condiment for roasted meats. Its tangy and sweet notes complement turkey, chicken, and even pork beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

After preparing your Five-Spice Cranberry Relish, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy it with various meals. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious over time.

If you have leftovers after the holidays, consider freezing the relish. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and it will stay fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a sweeter touch, you can incorporate diced apples or pears into the mixture as it cooks.

Feel free to experiment with other spices as well. A hint of ginger or cinnamon can add warmth, while fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can introduce an aromatic layer. The beauty of this relish is its adaptability, allowing you to create a version that is uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.

→ How long does the relish last in the fridge?

The cranberry relish can last up to a week in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this relish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ What can I serve this relish with?

This relish pairs beautifully with cheese platters, roasted meats, or can be served on crackers.