Rachael Ray’s cranberry sauce has a secret ingredient that you never considered

Many people learned to cook with Rachael Ray. Her simple, approachable recipes are just what home cooks want. During the holidays, cranberry sauce is often a divisive dish, but Rachael Ray’s secret ingredient could make it the must have food on the table.

From that jellied version straight from the can to the homemade variety, cranberry sauce is either loved or pushed off the table. Even though it is a seasonal item, some people cannot get on board with the sweet, yet tart flavor.

Finding ways to make that hotly debated dish more palatable is a quest taken on by my cooks. Grandma could often coax people to taking at least a spoonful. With this secret ingredient from Ray, everyone will want to get a taste.

What is Ray’s secret? She uses Staple Gin in her Negroni Cranberry Sauce.

As the name suggests, it is a riff on both cranberry sauce and the classic Negroni cocktail. Cranberries, sugar, Campari and Staple Gin are the simple ingredients to this recipe. Basically, less than 20 minutes, this dish comes together. A little saucy cranberry could make people appreciate the seasonal fruit.

To be clear, there are only 3 tablespoons of the gin, Campari, and vermouth in the recipe. It is not like drinking a cocktail, but the ingredients add some balance to the recipe. If anyone is not imbibing, it is best to make them aware of the secret ingredient before serving.

This recipe is one of several that Ray shared for the holiday season. In partnership with Fresh Direct, she compiled an entire feast. From turkey to side dishes to even dessert, these simple and delicious recipes will wow everyone at the table.

Plus, they use her Staple Gin. For cooks who like to sip as they stir, it is a great way to use their favorite liquor in their cooking.

As seen in this menu compilation and partnership, it is an easy way for cooks, at any skill level, to feel confident about their holiday feast. Straightforward recipes that are achievable are vital for any home cook. And, if something goes sideways, a great cocktail can soothe the frazzled nerves before everyone sits at the table.

More information on the Fresh Direct and Rachael Ray partnership can be found on the brand's website. All the holiday recipes are available as well.