The Standish House Cranberry Relish is a delightful and traditional holiday recipe that has been passed down through generations. This tangy and sweet relish is the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal, adding a burst of flavor and festive touch to the table. The history of this recipe can be traced back to the Standish family, who were early settlers in the United States, and they developed this relish using native cranberries, along with other ingredients inspired by their European roots.

The story of Standish House Cranberry Relish dates back to the 17th century when the Standish family settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts. One of the family’s descendants, Martha Standish, is credited with creating this unique cranberry relish recipe. During the holiday season, Martha sought to create a special dish that would bring a taste of sweetness and nostalgia to her family’s celebratory feast.

Being surrounded by the abundant cranberry bogs of the region, Martha decided to incorporate these native berries into her recipe. To elevate the flavors further, she added a blend of aromatic spices, inspired by the culinary traditions of her ancestors from England. With the addition of orange or apple juice, golden raisins, and chopped pecans, the relish took on a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a cherished family favorite.

Over the years, the Standish House Cranberry Relish became a cherished recipe within the family, passed down from generation to generation. As friends and neighbors tasted this delectable relish during holiday gatherings, it quickly gained popularity beyond the Standish household. Today, it continues to be a beloved staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners across the country.

PREP: 20 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: ABOUT 3 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

• ¾ cup orange or apple juice
• ⅔ cup sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Dash ground cloves
• 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup golden raisins
• ½ cup chopped pecans

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a saucepan, combine the juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add cranberries and raisins to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes or until cranberries pop.
5. Remove from the heat; stir in the chopped pecans.
6. Chill the relish for several hours before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Traditional Thanksgiving Feast: Serve the Standish House Cranberry Relish as a delightful side dish alongside the classic Thanksgiving turkey. The relish’s tangy sweetness complements the savory flavors of the turkey and other traditional holiday dishes. The vibrant red color of the relish also adds a festive touch to the Thanksgiving table, making it a visually appealing and delicious addition to the meal.
• Holiday Cheese Board: Incorporate the Standish House Cranberry Relish into a festive holiday cheese board. Arrange a variety of artisanal cheeses, crackers, and dried fruits on a platter, and place a generous dollop of the cranberry relish in the center. The relish’s sweet and tangy flavors pair beautifully with cheeses like Brie, goat cheese, or aged cheddar, creating a delightful contrast of tastes and textures. Your guests will appreciate the unique twist on the traditional cheese board and savor the delicious combination of flavors.

NOTES:

• This Standish House Cranberry Relish not only adds a burst of vibrant color to your holiday table but also a burst of rich, sweet-tart flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re continuing a long-standing family tradition or starting a new one, this relish is sure to become a beloved part of your holiday celebrations for years to come.