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Cumberland Sauce

United Kingdom

Cumberland sauce is named for the English county of Cumberland, though its origins are debated. It has been served with cold meats, game and Christmas ham for generations.

A glossy, tangy British sauce of redcurrant jelly, port, orange and mustard. The traditional partner for gammon, pork pies and game.

Authentic United Kingdom Cumberland Sauce recipe
Prep
10 mins
Cook
10 mins
Difficulty
Easy
Calories
50 kcal
Serves
8
Calories are an estimate based on ingredients used

Ingredients

4 tbspredcurrant jelly
100mlruby port
1orange, zested and juiced
1lemon, zested and juiced
1 tspEnglish mustard powder
1/2 tspground ginger
1shallot, very finely chopped
pinchsalt

Method

1

Simmer the shallot in a little water for 2 minutes, then drain.

2

Put the redcurrant jelly, port, citrus zest and juice, mustard and ginger in a small pan.

3

Heat gently, stirring, until the jelly melts, then simmer for 5 minutes until syrupy.

4

Add the shallot, season with salt and cool. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Chef's Tip

Cut the citrus zest into very fine strips, not gratings, for the classic look and texture.

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Some recipe photos courtesy of Openverse and Wikimedia Commons contributors, used under Creative Commons licenses.
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