One evening, while experimenting in the kitchen with an abundance of sweet cherries, I stumbled upon a delightful creation that has become a staple in my home: Cherry Mustard Sauce. The vibrant color and rich aroma create a perfect allure that begs to be paired with steak, pork, or poultry, and trust me, it doesn’t disappoint!
As I sautéed shallots, the heady scent of spices filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my mood and sparking my appetite. With just a handful of ingredients, including a splash of white wine and a drizzle of honey, this sauce transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts. It’s an unexpected twist that balances both tart and sweet, making it a versatile companion for your favorite proteins.
Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate a weeknight meal, this Cherry Sauce for Steak, Pork, and Poultry promises to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!
Why is Cherry Sauce for Steak, Pork, and Poultry irresistible?
Bold flavor: This sauce bursts with a vibrant mix of sweet cherries, tangy mustard, and aromatic spices that effortlessly elevate any dish.
Easy to whip up: With a straightforward method and just a few ingredients, you can create a gourmet sauce in no time.
Versatile pairing: Perfect for steak, pork, or poultry, it adapts beautifully to any protein for your dinner table.
Make it yours: Customize it with herbs or spices to suit your taste, ensuring this sauce becomes uniquely yours.
Impress guests: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch everyone rave about your culinary skills! This Cherry Mustard Sauce is your secret to instant culinary applause.
Cherry Sauce for Steak Ingredients
This cherry sauce for steak, pork, and poultry is a delightful combination of flavors!
For the Sauce
• Butter – 3 tablespoons, divided; adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Medium shallot – about ⅓ cup diced; brings a sweet and mild onion flavor.
• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon; adds earthy warmth that complements the cherries.
• Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon; enhances the sauce with citrusy notes.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste; balance the flavors and enhance the sauce.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon; provides a subtle heat that elevates the sauce.
• Dry or semi-dry white wine – 1 ½ cups; creates a flavorful base and adds acidity.
• Broth – ½ cup, beef or vegetable; enhances the sauce’s richness and depth.
• Stone ground mustard – 2 tablespoons; gives a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with sweetness.
• Honey – 2 tablespoons; adds a blend of sweetness to balance the dish.
• Pitted sweet cherries – 2 cups (10 ounces), fresh or frozen; the star ingredient, for that luscious cherry flavor!
• Fresh rosemary – 2 sprigs; infuses an aromatic essence, highlighting the cherry charm.
How to Make Cherry Mustard Sauce
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Heat the Butter: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced shallot and sauté until it becomes translucent; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Spices: Toss in the ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
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Simmer the Wine: Pour in the white wine and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until reduced by half, which should take around 10-15 minutes.
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Whisk in Mustard and Honey: Add the stone ground mustard and honey to the pan. Whisk well until fully combined, bringing a delightful blend of flavors.
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Incorporate the Cherries: Gently add the sweet cherries and rosemary. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices, creating a beautiful sauce consistency.
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Finish with Butter: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This will give your sauce a smooth and glossy finish.
Optional: Serve the sauce warm over your favorite protein for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Sauce
Fridge: Store your cherry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to revive its rich flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to use, warm the thawed cherry sauce over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This keeps the flavors vibrant for your favorite steak, pork, and poultry dishes.
Expert Tips for Cherry Sauce
• Choose the Right Cherries: Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor. Frozen cherries are a convenient alternative when fresh ones aren’t in season.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to keep it family-friendly while still delicious.
• Deglaze Properly: Ensure you scrape the bottom of the pan when adding wine to capture all those flavorful bits, adding depth to your cherry sauce for steak, pork, and poultry.
• Whisk Well: Be sure to whisk the mustard and honey into the sauce thoroughly; this helps distribute the flavors for a harmonious taste experience.
• Serve Warm: For the best flavor and texture, serve your cherry mustard sauce warm over your chosen protein—it brings out the sweetness and spice beautifully!
What to Serve with Cherry Mustard Sauce?
Creating a meal that tantalizes the taste buds is easy when you have a luscious sauce like this one at your disposal.
- Rustic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture envelops the savory sauce, balancing flavors beautifully with each comforting scoop.
- Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy, the smoky notes of the chicken amplify the rich cherry sauce while making for an exciting flavor contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of caramelized veggies brings earthy undertones that playfully harmonize with the sweetness of the sauce.
- Toasted Baguette: Serve slices with the sauce as a dip; the crunch from the baguette adds a delightful textural contrast to the velvety sauce.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Bright, fresh greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette enhance the sauce’s sweetness and provide a refreshing lift to your plate.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly seasoned spinach compliments the cherry mustard sauce’s robust flavors, adding a nutritious green element to the meal.
- Tender Pork Chops: This classic pairing is timeless; the rich taste of pork paired with cherry sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Dry White Wine: Elevate your dining experience with a crisp glass that mirrors the wine’s notes used in the sauce, enhancing every delightful bite.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note; the rich, velvety dessert provides a delectable contrast to the sauce’s vibrant profile.
Cherry Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists on your cherry sauce, transforming it with each variation!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of minced jalapeño for a fresh, zesty heat that complements the sweetness. You’ll love the layers of flavor that emerge!
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Herb Infusion: Swap rosemary for fresh thyme or basil to lend a different aromatic quality. Each herb brings its unique festive essence to your dishes!
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten the sauce, enhancing the fruity notes; this adds a refreshing twist!
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Red Wine: Replace white wine with a fruity red wine for a richer flavor profile. This will deepen the sauce’s color and complexity, perfect for hearty meats.
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Maple Sweetness: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a unique depth of sweetness that beautifully complements the cherries and adds a touch of earthiness.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for additional texture and richness. This crunchy element takes the sauce to a whole new level!
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Berry Boost: Mix in a cup of fresh raspberries or blackberries for a colorful berry blend. This will create a delightful medley of flavors and a stunning presentation.
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Smoky Notes: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a warming, smoky flavor that adds depth. This surprisingly elevates your dish to a gourmet experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Mustard Sauce preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can sauté the shallots and spices up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor. The mixture can be blended with the wine and broth, allowing the sauce to meld beautifully overnight. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the mixture over low heat, stir in the remaining ingredients—mustard, honey, cherries, and rosemary—and finish it off with the butter as directed. This method not only saves time but ensures your delicious Cherry Sauce for Steak, Pork, and Poultry remains just as vibrant and tasty!
Cherry Mustard Sauce Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use for Cherry Mustard Sauce?
Absolutely! Using ripe, sweet cherries will give your sauce the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen cherries are a great alternative that still offers delicious taste, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
How should I store Cherry Mustard Sauce?
For optimal freshness, store your homemade cherry mustard sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to bring back its rich flavors.
Can I freeze Cherry Mustard Sauce?
Very! To freeze, transfer the cooled sauce to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently.
What can I do if the sauce is too sweet or too spicy?
If your cherry sauce turns out too sweet, you can balance that by adding a bit more mustard or a splash of vinegar to enhance the tangy flavor. If it’s too spicy from the crushed red pepper flakes, try adding a spoonful of honey or a little more cherry to mellow out the heat. Remember, cooking is all about adjusting to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations for Cherry Mustard Sauce?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, be sure to use a gluten-free mustard and broth to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, it’s always wise to check for allergies related to cherries or mustard. This cherry sauce for steak, pork, and poultry can be enjoyed by everyone with just a few adjustments!
Can I use this sauce on other dishes besides steak, pork, and poultry?
Definitely! This sauce is incredibly versatile. It can also be drizzled over grilled veggies, used as a dip for Brie cheese, or as a bright condiment for sandwiches and wraps. The more, the merrier when it comes to experimenting with flavors!
Cherry Sauce for Steak, Pork, and Poultry: A Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced shallot and sauté until it becomes translucent; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until reduced by half, which should take around 10-15 minutes.
- Add the stone ground mustard and honey to the pan. Whisk well until fully combined.
- Gently add the sweet cherries and rosemary. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.