National Cranberry Relish Day

National Cranberry Relish Day is widely celebrated in the US on November 22nd, as this date highlights the importance of cranberry sauce in celebration meals. Many Americans can’t imagine a festive dinner without this classic addition to the menu.

History

Researchers believe that cranberry sauce first appeared in New England in the early 1900s, but it did not gain popularity due to people’s reluctance to change their diets. That is until 1950, when a popular radio show broadcasted a recipe for the cranberry sauce. This revolutionized the dish’s place in America’s culinary history. The show’s host and American culinary writer had invited a popular journalist, Susan Stamberg, to discuss festive dishes and it was her mother-in-law’s recipe that defined cranberry sauce’s place as a classic in the US.

Interesting facts

• Cranberries consist of 90% water.
• In the 17th century it was known as “bearberry” as bears were often seen eating it.
• It can bounce if picked at different ripeness.
• It was used by the Indians to preserve its quality by rubbing it into a paste and combining it with dried meat.
• It is the official berry of the state of Massachusetts (law adopted in 1994).
• It has a beneficial effect on the body, removing toxins and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent.
• It does not grow in the southern hemisphere.
• It loves light when it’s ripening.
• It was traditionally preserved in water-filled oak barrels.
• It is often served with lingonberries.

How to take part

National Cranberry Relish Day is the perfect time to explore and create your own version of cranberry sauce. Try out different recipes, identify their differences, and think about how to improve them. Come up with a name for your unique version and invite friends over for a tasting. You can also go harvesting cranberries!

When is National Cranberry Relish Day Celebrated in 2023?

National Cranberry Relish Day is devoted to celebrating cheerfulness and fun. It happens annually on November the 22nd.

Observations