Never underestimate the power of accessorizing your meals -- and I'm referring to more than side dishes. When most people think "accessory," they stop at cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving. But there are so many salsas, chutneys, relishes, and compotes that perfectly complement everyday meals that simply get forgotten. But they shouldn't -- they can pack a real flavor punch and bring new life to your family's established menu.
They're also convenient. Why?
* Most of these condiments can be made in advance.
* Depending on their preparation, they can have a long shelf life.
* They can be served at room temperature, which is handy for buffet-style meals.
This recipe is one of my very favorites. It's delicious, and tastes great with chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, or pork chops; on sandwiches; and, believe it or not, even beside scrambled eggs. And it features Bosc pears, which, as I've mentioned before, I love. They're currently in season and should be available at your local supermarket.
CRANBERRY AND PEAR CHUTNEY
Makes about 3½ cups
1 large navel orange
One 12-ounce bag of fresh or frozen cranberries
2 Bosc pears, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch cubes
¼ cup chopped, crystallized ginger
¼ cup sugar
One 3-inch cinnamon stick
¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted (see Note below)
Grate the zest from the orange and squeeze the juice.
Bring the cranberries, pears, orange juice and zest, ginger, sugar, and cinnamon to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, until almost all the cranberries have popped and the juices are syrupy, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a container and cool completely. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight to marry the flavors. Remove the cinnamon stick. (This chutney can be prepared up to a week ahead.)
Just before serving, stir in half the almonds, then garnish with the rest. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Note: To toast nuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degree F, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 10 minutes. Cool completely before using.
