Passover is a time for family, reflection, and of course, delicious food! This year, ditch the same old recipes and try something truly special: Carrot Tzimmes. This sweet and savory side dish is a Passover staple, combining the sweetness of carrots with the warmth of spices and the heartiness of dried fruits. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and will become a cherished part of your holiday meal. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your easy recipes collection.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs carrots, peeled and sliced (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water (or more if needed)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor and creates a delicious base for your Carrot Tzimmes.
-
Add the Carrots and Spices: Add the sliced carrots, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir well to coat the carrots with the oil and spices. Sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the carrots to slightly soften.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the apple juice, brown sugar, and honey. Stir well to combine. Add the chopped apricots, raisins, and 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally, and add more water if needed to prevent sticking.
-
Season and Serve: Once the carrots are tender, season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as needed. Serve warm as a delicious side dish alongside your Passover meal. This healthy meal is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Tips for the Best Carrot Tzimmes:
- Don't overcook the carrots: Overcooked carrots will become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm carrots.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet Tzimmes, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey.
- Use fresh spices for best flavor: Freshly ground spices will offer a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground spices.
- Add a touch of citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors.
Variations:
- Add some potatoes: For a heartier Tzimmes, add 1 lb of peeled and diced potatoes along with the carrots.
- Include different dried fruits: Experiment with other dried fruits like prunes or cranberries.
- Make it vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Carrot Tzimmes recipe is a simple yet elegant addition to your Passover Seder. It’s a delicious, easy-to-follow recipe perfect for both experienced cooks and those new to homemade cooking. Enjoy this delicious dish as part of your quick dinner ideas this Passover, and savor the sweet and savory flavors of tradition. Happy Passover!