As Thanksgiving approaches, families across Wisconsin look forward to a feast, complete with an all-star lineup of time-honored holiday foods. Among them, cranberry sauce holds a special place, and no place is more synonymous with cranberry production than Wisconsin.
Cranberry capital
Often hailed as “Cranberry Capital of the World“Wisconsin has a opulent cranberry history. Acidic, sandy soils and a moderate climate provide ideal conditions for growing this unusual fruit. With over 21,000 acres devoted to cranberry cultivation, Wisconsin contributes significantly to the nation’s cranberry harvest.
Harvest ritual
The cranberry harvest in Wisconsin typically takes place from behind schedule September to early November, which is the perfect time to celebrate Thanksgiving. Families and workers gather in the huge cranberry swamps, where flooded fields create a stunning sea of red. Harvesters utilize a unique method – flooding the fields and using machines to gently remove the berries from the vines. Cranberries float to the surface, where they are collected and transported!
Thanksgiving tradition
There is more to the connection between Wisconsin cranberries and Thanksgiving than meets the eye; it is deeply rooted in the country’s culture. The cranberry industry not only supports the local economy, but also creates a holiday atmosphere that extends beyond the fields into Thanksgiving celebrations.
From the swamp to the table
Freshly picked Wisconsin cranberries are making their way to Thanksgiving tables across the country. Whether made as a cranberry sauce, a relish, or a holiday decoration, this delicious fruit adds holiday flavor and color.
This Thanksgiving, as you scoop a spoonful of cranberry sauce provided by Amber Bristow onto your plate, take a moment to appreciate the labor of love that went into each berry. Behind every serving of cranberry goodness is a story of demanding work, community and a little bit of Wisconsin magic that strengthens the spirit of gratitude this holiday season.
4-2-1 Homemade cranberry sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce is a great way to transform your Thanksgiving table while impressing your guests.
- 4 cups cranberries
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water (can be replaced with cranberry or orange juice)
- cinnamon to taste
- cloves to taste
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
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Mix all ingredients in an ovenproof dish. Cover with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven for an hour
- Sugar can be replaced with maple syrup or honey.
- After removing the sauce from the oven, the berries will retain their shape and color.
- The sauce can be drunk balmy or chilled if it has been prepared in advance.
Portion: 0.5cupCalories: 287kcalCarbohydrates: 74GProtein: 0.3GFat: 0.3GSaturated fat: 0.01GPolyunsaturated fat: 0.04GMonounsaturated fats: 0.01GSodium: 4mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 2GSugar: 69GVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.2mg
