Name: Jamie Oliver Cumberland Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-481680H41M22S
Total time: 46 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 200g red currant jelly; Zest and juice of 1 orange; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 100ml port wine; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; A pinch of ground allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce is a classic British condiment that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, cold cuts, and pâtés. With its tangy-sweet flavor, this sauce combines the richness of red currant jelly with fresh citrus and a hint of spice, creating a versatile accompaniment perfect for holiday dinners or any special meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Rich, Tangy Flavor: The combination of citrus and red currant is both refreshing and complex.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this sauce accessible.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal with roasted meats, especially game and ham.
Long-Lasting: Can be made in advance and stored for convenience.
Pairs with Many Dishes: Works well with cold meats, warm roasts, and cheese boards.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce?

Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce is a traditional British sauce made with red currant jelly, orange and lemon zest, port wine, and spices. It’s sweet and tangy, with a warming hint of ginger, making it an ideal pairing for savory dishes.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

200g red currant jelly
Zest and juice of 1 orange
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
100ml port wine
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
A pinch of ground allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus

Zest the orange and lemon, and then juice both fruits. Set the zest and juice aside separately.

Step 2: Melt the Red Currant Jelly

In a small saucepan, add the red currant jelly and heat gently over low heat, stirring until it melts and becomes smooth.

Step 3: Add Citrus and Port

Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, lemon zest, lemon juice, and port wine. Mix well to combine with the melted jelly.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the Dijon mustard, ground ginger, and allspice to the mixture, stirring to incorporate. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more port or a splash of water.

Step 6: Serve or Store

Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature. If making ahead, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Roasted Meats: Ideal with roast ham, lamb, or game meats.
Cold Cuts and Charcuterie: Complements cold meats and pâtés.
Cheese Board: Pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
Grilled Vegetables: Adds a tangy contrast to roasted or grilled veggies.
Roasted Pork or Turkey: Perfect for holiday dinners and special occasions.

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Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Use Fresh Citrus: Fresh orange and lemon zest enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Simmer Slowly: A gentle simmer helps the flavors meld without over-thickening.
Adjust Consistency: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer; for a thinner sauce, add a splash of water or more port.
Serve at Room Temperature: This sauce tastes best when not too hot, allowing the flavors to shine.
Make Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance to allow the flavors to deepen.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Add Cloves: A pinch of ground cloves adds a warm spice element.
Swap the Port for Red Wine: Red wine works well if port is unavailable, though it may be less sweet.
Cranberry Twist: Substitute red currant jelly with cranberry jelly for a different flavor profile.
Add Fresh Herbs: A small amount of rosemary or thyme can add an herbal note.
Make It Sweeter: Add a small spoonful of honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

How to Store Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Store the sauce in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it come to room temperature or reheat gently before serving.

How to Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving – 1 tablespoon)

Calories: 40 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 0.5g

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, Cumberland Sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and bring it to room temperature or reheat gently before serving for the best flavor.

What can I substitute for port wine in Cumberland Sauce?

If you don’t have a port, you can use red wine as a substitute, although it may be slightly less sweet. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, you can replace port with grape juice and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

How long does Cumberland Sauce last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, Cumberland Sauce will last for up to one week in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to three months for longer storage.

Can I use cranberry jelly instead of red currant jelly for this recipe?

Yes, cranberry jelly can be used as a substitute for red currant jelly. It will provide a similar sweetness and tartness, though the flavor may be slightly different.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Cumberland Sauce is a tangy, sweet condiment that pairs beautifully with savory dishes. Its balance of citrus, red currant, and spices creates a depth of flavor that enhances any roast or cheese platter. Make a batch for your next special occasion, and enjoy this classic British sauce that’s both versatile and delicious!

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