Thanksgiving Traditions

I have spent Thanksgiving in London, in Paris, and on Martha’s Vineyard, as well as at home with my family in Baltimore. I always remember certain traditions that are carried from year to year and place to place.

One of my favourite traditions is cranberry relish for the turkey. My mother always made a wonderful cranberry and orange relish and it was always stored in a funny square glass jar with lattice-work on the sides.  The recipe is so simple, even I can make it, and best of all, no cooking.

Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish

1 (12-ounce) package cranberries, rinsed and drained
1 unpeeled orange, cut into eighths and seeded
3/4 to 1 cup granulated sugar

Place half the cranberries and half the orange slices in food processor container. Process until mixture is evenly chopped. (You can also do this in a food mill.) Transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining cranberries and orange slices. Stir in sugar. Store in refrigerator or freezer.

Makes about 3 cups.

Note: Prepare ahead of time to let the flavours mix. You can also add chopped apples or a slug of Gran Marnier.

What are the traditions that you and your family carry on from year to year?