Sweet And Savory Hawthorn Berry Sauce

1 lb hawthorn berries, washed and stems removed
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup sugar (more or less to taste)
2 cinnamon sticks
pinch crushed red pepper

Put the hawthorn berries in a saucepan with the water, and put over medium-low heat just until the water starts to bubble, then turn down to low, cover the saucepan tightly and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring a couple times. Remove from heat, allow mixture to cool, then pour through a mesh colander over a bowl and push through the sieve with the back of a big spoon to remove the seeds.
Pour the sauce from the bowl back into a saucepan, add the remaining ingredients, put over low heat, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce gets thick.
Remove from heat and remove the cinnamon sticks.
Serve immediately by pouring hot over ice cream, or pound cake, or other desserts.
You can also use this sauce with duck, pork, or other grilled foods.