Cranberries are indeed associated with Massachusetts and hold a special place in the state’s agricultural history. Massachusetts is one of the leading producers of cranberries in the United States. The tart red berries are grown in bogs, and the state’s climate and soil conditions are well-suited for cranberry cultivation.
Cranberries are not only a popular fruit for consumption, but they are also a significant part of Massachusetts’ cultural and culinary heritage. They are used in various dishes, including sauces, desserts, and beverages. One of the most well-known uses of cranberries is in cranberry sauce, a traditional accompaniment to Thanksgiving meals.
The cranberry industry has become an important aspect of the state’s economy. Massachusetts celebrates this heritage with events like cranberry festivals, where visitors can learn about the cultivation process, enjoy local cranberry products, and celebrate the harvest. The town of Wareham, for example, hosts the Cranberry Harvest Celebration annually, showcasing the importance of cranberries to the region.
Take a look at these recipes Alicia prepared for our free farmer’s market to inspire clients to cook. If you try them, please let us know which one you liked the most!
Simple New England Cranberry Sauce
4 cups fresh or frozen Cranberries
¾ or 1 cup Sugar
½ cup Water
Lemon peel
Cook on slow then use the masher to crush
Cranberry-Nut Relish
3 cups of fresh Cranberries
½ cup of Walnuts
1 whole Orange (cut out peel, remove seeds)
½ cup of Sugar or Honey
1/8 teaspoon of allspice
Pulse in a food processor, and leave in the fridge overnight.
Cranberry-Apple Crisp
4 Cups of cut peeled apples (fresh or frozen)
2 Cups of Cranberries (roughly chopped)
1 Cup Sugar
Toss the above ingredients in a baking dish (spray pan).
1 Cup Oats
½ Cup Flour
½ Cup Sugar
½ teaspoon Cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon Clove
¼ teaspoon Ginger
1 Melted Stick Butter
Mix the above together well until crumbly. Press onto apple/cran mix.
Bake at 350 for about 30-40 minutes. The knife in apple should be soft, but not mushy.
Eat warm or cold. Top with Vanilla Ice cream or Whip cream.
