The bright red cranberries are one of the most valuable wild fruits in our Alpine region. Whether as a classic accompaniment to game dishes, with Wiener schnitzel or as jam for breakfast – their tart, sour taste is unmistakable and an integral part of traditional Pinzgau cuisine.
In this article, you will find out more about the origins and special features of cranberries – and we will reveal a simple but tried-and-tested recipe for homemade cranberry jam, as it has been prepared for generations.
What are cranberries?
The cranberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) is a close relative of the cranberry and prefers to grow at higher altitudes, on acidic soils – for example on alpine pastures, in forests or on forest edges. In Austria, they are often also called Granten.
🫐 Harvest time: August to October
🌿 Particularly rich in: Vitamin C, tannins & antioxidants
❤️ Healing effect: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial & good for the bladder
The slightly bitter taste comes from the fruit acids and tannins it contains – and it is precisely these that make it the perfect antidote to hearty dishes such as saddle of venison or roast pork.
Our recipe: Homemade cranberry jam 🍯
Simple, delicious and full of natural flavor
With just a few ingredients, you can conjure up a real piece of Alpine cuisine on your breakfast table:
📝 Ingredients (for approx. 4 glasses):
- 500 g fresh or frozen cranberries
- 250 g gelling sugar 2:1
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- Optional: 1-2 tbsp water or apple juice
👩🍳 Preparation:
- Wash the cranberries thoroughly and discard any bad berries.
- Heat slowly in a saucepan with lemon juice and (optional) a dash of water until juice comes out.
- Add the preserving sugar and boil for approx. 4-5 minutes while stirring.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal immediately and turn upside down.
📦 S helf life: stored in a cool, dark place for approx. 6-9 months
Collecting cranberries on vacation – a real nature experience 🍂
Between the end of August and October, you may be lucky enough to discover wild cranberries on a hiking vacation in Lofer. Of course, you can collect small quantities for your own use – preferably on a guided hike.
👉 Tip: Enjoy our homemade cranberry jam at breakfast in your vacation apartment – or take a jar home with you as a souvenir!
Even more enjoyment from the region
Fancy more alpine recipes? Take a look at our blog:
- 👉 Cranberry dumplings 🫐 Salzburger Almgenuss
- 👉 Cheese dumplings 🧀 Tyrol’s spiciest dumpling specialty
Vacations at the Grubhof – where nature and pleasure come together 🏞️
Whether for hiking, berry picking or simply relaxing – our idyllically situated vacation apartments in the Salzburger Saalachtal offer you the perfect starting point for eventful and relaxing days. The lovingly furnished apartments with a view of the mountains are waiting for you.
📆 Check availability now & book directly:
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