Tzimmes

Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a hearty, comforting stew. Often served during holidays like Rosh Hashanah or Passover, Tzimmes is made with a mix of root vegetables, dried fruits, and sometimes meat, all slow-cooked in a spiced, sweet sauce. The dish typically features carrots, sweet potatoes, and prunes, which create a naturally sweet base, balanced with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of honey. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, Tzimmes is a flavorful and nourishing dish that evokes a sense of tradition and warmth with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup pitted prunes
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or margarine (for a kosher version)
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced carrots and cubed sweet potatoes. Add the prunes, dried apricots, and raisins, mixing everything together.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat. Stir in the honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Pour in the orange juice and water, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
4. Assemble the Tzimmes: Pour the sauce over the vegetable and fruit mixture, tossing to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve: Let the Tzimmes cool slightly before serving. Serve it warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.

Tzimmes is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that brings the warmth of tradition to your table, perfect for holiday celebrations or any comforting meal.