Super Simple Cranberry Sauce

• 1 cup water
• Zest of 2 oranges (optional)
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (12 oz. bag)
• 1 tablespoon brandy (optional)

Cranberry sauce is by far the easiest part of the Thanksgiving spread to make yourself, and there's a big payoff in taste. Cranberry sauce also usually tastes better the day after it's made, so you can make it ahead and have one less thing to worry about. Cranberries are high in pectin, so a quick simmer with water and sugar is all you need for a basic sauce. Feel free to spice things up with extra flavorings like walnuts and cinnamon sticks.

In a medium to large saucepan, simmer the zest of the oranges in the water for about five minutes, then add the sugar and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the cranberries and simmer until they pop open and became translucent, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the brandy.