Tart Cranberry-Onion Relish
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This vibrant cranberry and onion relish offers a sophisticated twist on traditional festive condiments. The combination of tart berries and softened sweet onions creates a complex flavour profile that balances acidity with a gentle, fruity sweetness. Unlike standard shop-bought sauces, this homemade version has a wonderful texture and a bright, jewel-toned appearance that looks beautiful on any dining table. It is particularly effective at cutting through rich, savoury dishes or adding a zesty lift to a weekend brunch.
As a versatile vegan side dish, this relish is an excellent addition to your fridge staples during the winter months. It pairs perfectly with nut roasts, vegan sausages or a selection of plant-based cheeses. Because the flavours develop and deepen over time, it is an ideal make-ahead recipe for busy hosting periods. Simply prepare it a day in advance to ensure the cider vinegar and red-currant jelly create a perfectly balanced glaze.
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Ingredients for Tart Cranberry-Onion Relish
1 (350g) package fresh or unthawed frozen cranberries
1 (3/4-lb) sweet onion, chopped (325g )
1 (350g) jar red-currant jelly
60ml cider vinegar
2 to 4 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
How to make Tart Cranberry-Onion Relish
Stir together all ingredients in a 2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan, then bring to a boil, covered. Remove lid and reduce heat, then simmer until cranberries have burst, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and cool, uncovered. Chill, covered, at least 8 hours for flavours to meld. Serve at room temperature.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors
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