Are you looking for a delicious and comforting side dish that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion? Look no further than Carrot Tzimmes! This traditional Jewish dish boasts a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender carrots simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a healthy and satisfying addition to your meal. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful Carrot Tzimmes, perfect for busy weeknights or special celebrations. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and thinly sliced (about 6 large carrots)
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your Tzimmes.
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Add the carrots: Add the sliced carrots to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. Don't rush this step; allowing the carrots to slightly brown enhances their flavor.
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Incorporate the sweetness: Stir in the brown sugar, honey, and apple juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
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Simmer to perfection: Add the chopped apricots, raisins, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter Tzimmes, add more honey; if you prefer a more intense spice, add a pinch more cinnamon or ginger. Serve warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Cooking Tips:
- For even sweeter carrots, you can use a combination of light and dark brown sugar.
- If you don't have apple juice, you can substitute with orange juice or even water.
- Feel free to add other dried fruits like prunes or cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of, or in addition to, vegetable oil.
Variations:
- Spicy Tzimmes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Tzimmes: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon for a bright and refreshing twist.
- Nutty Tzimmes: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
This easy Carrot Tzimmes recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. It's a perfect example of how healthy and delicious homemade cooking can be! Enjoy!