Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a comforting, hearty stew. Made with a mix of root vegetables (carrots and sweet potatoes), dried fruits (prunes, apricots, and cherries), and a touch of brown sugar, tzimmes is seasoned with cinnamon for added richness. Slowly cooked until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together, tzimmes is a popular dish during Jewish holidays, particularly Rosh Hashanah, symbolizing hope for a sweet new year. Its warm, sweet taste and nourishing ingredients make tzimmes a beloved and timeless part of Jewish culinary tradition.
Tzimmes
Ingredients
- 6 carrots
- 4 sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup bite-size pitted dates
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1 medium apple, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (processed with the rind)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cut the carrots into 2-inch pieces. Cook the potatoes in their skins for 20 minutes, adding the carrots after 10 minutes. Drain in a colander; set aside until cool enough to handle.
- Peel the potatoes and cut into 1-inch chunks. Transfer the potatoes and carrots to a large bowl.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the dates, apricots, apple, if using, cherries, if using, orange juice, syrup, lemon juice, and brown sugar and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, just until heated through. Transfer to the potato mixture and stir well to combine.
- Add the parsley and salt and toss well to combine. Transfer to a 2-quart baking dish. Cover and bake, basting after 15 minutes, for about 30 minutes total, until the potatoes are fork-tender and juices are bubbling.
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