1 cup sugar 
                      11/2 tablespoons cornstarch 
                      1 cup water 
                      2 cups whole cranberries 
                      3/4 cup seedless raisins 
                      1 tablespoon butter 
                      1 teaspoon vanilla 
                      1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans  | 
                    I had a hard time trying to decide what to call this very strange sauce.  Served warm over vanilla ice cream, it makes a quick, easy, and elegant dessert.  And served chilled, it makes an interesting complement to poultry Stir the sugar and cornstarch together in a 2-quart saucepan.  Add the water, cranberries, and raisins.  Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.  Lower the heat and simmer, stirring often, until the cranberries are cooked and the sauce has thickened (about 5 to 7 minutes).  Mash cranberries that remain whole.  Remove from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla, and chopped nuts.  |