Publix cranberry orange relish is a popular holiday side dish, often served with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas foods. It combines the tart flavor of cranberries with the sweetness of oranges, balanced by spices and seasonings. Many people enjoy making their own cranberry relish, but Publix offers a ready-made version that saves time in the busy holiday season. Knowing the ingredients can help identify any potential food allergies or preferences. Here is a look at what goes into this bright, festive Publix relish.
Ingredients
The main ingredients in Publix cranberry orange relish are:
Cranberries
Cranberries provide the base for this relish, giving it the classic cranberry flavor and deep red color. They also supply a nice tartness that is balanced out by the other ingredients. Fresh or frozen cranberries are used.
Oranges
Oranges lend a refreshing sweetness and orange aroma to the relish. They also contribute moisture. Both the orange zest (outer peel) and orange segments (inside flesh) are included.
Sugar
Sugar balances out the natural tartness of the cranberries. Granulated white cane sugar adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Spices and seasonings
A blend of warm spices and seasonings add complexity to the relish. Based on the ingredient list, these likely include cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Small amounts of these spices complement the cranberries and oranges.
Corn syrup
Light corn syrup contributes body and a hint of caramelized sweetness. It acts as a thickener and binds the ingredients together in the relish.
Water
Water allows the ingredients to come together into a saucy relish consistency that can be spooned over meats and other foods.
See the Complete Ingredient List
Here is the full ingredient list for Publix cranberry orange relish, in order from most to least used:
| Cranberries |
| Orange segments |
| Sugar |
| Orange peel |
| Corn syrup |
| Water |
| Cinnamon |
| Allspice |
| Nutmeg |
| Salt |
Nutrition Information
In addition to the ingredients, it can be helpful to know the nutrition facts for Publix cranberry orange relish. A 1/4 cup serving provides:
| Calories | 110 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 35 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 29 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 26 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
As you can see, the relish is high in carbohydrates and natural sugars from the fruit ingredients, but is fat-free and low in sodium. The nutrition facts can help guide portion sizes.
Preparation Tips
Publix cranberry orange relish comes fully prepared in a refrigerated tub. All you need to do is:
- Remove the lid and peel off the safety seal.
- Stir the contents before serving to evenly distribute the fruits and juices.
- Scoop out desired portions with a spoon.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
The relish can be served chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed. It pairs nicely with turkey, chicken, ham, or pork.
Alternatives and Substitutions
If you want to make your own version, you can substitute ingredients:
- Instead of orange, try other citrus fruits like lemon, lime, grapefruit, or tangerine.
- Swap different sugars like brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for the granulated sugar.
- Experiment with other spices like ginger, cloves, cardamom, curry powder, or cayenne pepper.
- Replace the corn syrup with apple jelly or maple syrup.
- Use orange or pineapple juice for part of the water.
Let your taste preferences guide you in creating your own signature cranberry relish recipe.
How Long Does it Keep?
Unopened, Publix cranberry orange relish stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 months. Once opened, it will maintain best quality for 1 week in the refrigerator.
For long term storage, you can freeze cranberry relish in airtight containers for 8-12 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using again.
Conclusion
With its short ingredient list centered around cranberries, oranges, sugar, and warm spices, Publix cranberry orange relish delivers classic flavor in an easy-to-serve tub. Knowing what goes into this holiday staple can help you enjoy it even more. With a few simple preparation tips and creative ways to substitute ingredients, you can make this relish your own. Brighten up any holiday spread with the signature taste of Publix cranberry orange relish.