Cranberry slurry: A wonderful drink any time of the year

This drink is made with a few simple ingredients and is one of the best things you can serve any time of year.

The basic recipe contains only two or three ingredients but can be tailored to suit your  preference or to use up what you may have on hand.

Rinse 2 bags of fresh cranberries.

Place them along with 1 cup of the sweetener of your choice in a large pot along with one cup of water.

Bring to a boil.

Boil for about 30 minutes at a low boil until the berries begin to break down and “pop.” When this happens, turn the burner down to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes.  Then remove from heat to fully cool.

Using 4 pint canning jars, divide the mixture equally between them. 

Add 3 or 4 slices of orange to each jar.

Also add one cinnamon stick and one star anise to each jar.

Fill with water.

Add the lids and rings and place in the refrigerator. Do not can.

Keep the jars in the fridge for up to a month. You can make a wonderful holiday punch with them by adding a clear sparkling beverage to them in a large pitcher.

The way I like it best is to remove the cinnamon stick and star anise, then blend the remaining liquid, cranberries and orange slices in your blender until smooth.

Pour over ice. This is a delicious slurry that you may elect to add alcohol to as well.

It is a beautiful color that’s perfect for the holidays, but I enjoy it any time of the year, and I think you will as well.