Fresh Made Oregon Cranberry Sauce

Fresh Made Oregon Cranberry Sauce

24 oz. cranberries (equivalent of two standard bags of berries)*
2 cups brown sugar
2 cups orange juice
zest of one orange
2 cinnamon sticks
1 dried hot pepper (optional)


Combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about two hours, mushing the berries into a pulp after about an hour. In the second hour, watch the pot for potential burning, stirring frequently. The liquid will cook down and the berries will dissolve into a spreadable, thick, jam-like consistency. Remove cinnamon sticks and hot pepper before serving. Good warm or cold.  You might want to make a double batch.