Holiday Recipe Ideas to Try and Share: Foie Gras with Cranberry Chutney
Welcome Back to the Holiday Recipe Series
Welcome back to our Holiday Recipe Series, where festive flavors take center stage! In the last recipe, we celebrated the season with Holiday Crostini Variations. Now, we’re elevating the appetizer table with a luxurious bite that’s both indulgent and festive—Foie Gras with Cranberry Chutney.
This dish pairs the rich, buttery taste of foie gras with the sweet-tart brightness of cranberry chutney, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for holiday dinner parties or intimate gatherings, this appetizer embodies the spirit of sophistication without losing the warmth of the season.
Why Foie Gras & Cranberries Work So Well Together
Cranberries, with their sharp tartness, cut through the richness of foie gras, balancing every bite. The chutney adds layers of flavor with subtle spices, making it feel festive and seasonal. When served on crisp toast points or crostini, this pairing becomes both a visual and culinary centerpiece.
Recipe: Foie Gras with Cranberry Chutney
Yield: Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
Serving Size: 2 crostini with foie gras and chutney
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Chutney:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of cloves
- Pinch of salt
For the Foie Gras Crostini:
- 8 oz foie gras, sliced into 1/2-inch medallions
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cranberry Chutney
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, apple cider vinegar, onion, apricots, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 15–18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool. Chutney can be made 2–3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush lightly with butter, and toast for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 3: Sear the Foie Gras
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add foie gras slices and sear for 30–45 seconds on each side until golden brown. Remove from pan and let rest briefly.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
- Place a slice of foie gras on each toasted baguette round.
- Top with a spoonful of cranberry chutney.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a festive finish.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate, per serving of 2 crostini)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 9g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
A Touch of Elegance for the Holiday Table
Foie Gras with Cranberry Chutney is more than just an appetizer—it’s a statement dish. Its rich flavors, festive colors, and elegant presentation make it ideal for the holidays. Whether served as part of a lavish spread or offered as a refined bite before dinner, this pairing ensures your guests will remember the experience long after the meal is over.
So, gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy this festive taste of indulgence. The holiday season deserves a little luxury!
✨ Stay tuned as our Holiday Recipe Series continues—next, we’ll explore another festive starter that’s perfect for sharing.