A sweet and savory Jewish holiday staple that warms the soul
This Jewish holiday tzimmes brings together tender carrots, plump apricots, and a honey-cinnamon glaze for a festive side dish. Perfect for Rosh Hashanah or Thanksgiving, it's a comforting, aromatic tradition that brings warmth to any table.
Tzimmes is a beloved Jewish holiday dish with roots in Ashkenazi cuisine. This version uses sweet carrots, dried apricots, and a honey-cinnamon glaze to create a rich, flavorful stew that pairs beautifully with roast chicken or brisket.
The dish is naturally sweetened with honey, making it a healthier alternative to traditional sugared side dishes. It's also a make-ahead recipe, so you can prepare it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight.
With its vibrant orange color and comforting aroma, this tzimmes adds both visual appeal and a taste of tradition to your holiday table. It's a recipe that honors heritage while embracing modern simplicity.
Whether you're celebrating Rosh Hashanah for the first time or have family traditions to uphold, this tzimmes is sure to become a favorite. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors is a perfect complement to any festive meal.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be made entirely on the stovetop. No special equipment is needed, making it accessible for all skill levels.
💰 Affordable Ingredients
Carrots, apricots, and honey are pantry staples that offer rich flavor at a budget-friendly price.
👥 Family-Friendly
The mild, sweet flavor makes this tzimmes a hit with both children and adults. It's a great way to introduce younger generations to Jewish holiday traditions.
🌟 Flavor Development
The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a rich, complex dish that's better the next day.
Jewish Holiday Tzimmes Recipe
A sweet and savory celebration dish
🛒 Ingredients
- -2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- -1 cup dried apricots, halved
- -1/2 cup honey
- -1/4 cup water
- -1 tsp ground cinnamon
- -1/4 tsp salt
- -1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Ingredients: Cut carrots into 1-inch pieces. Halve dried apricots.
💡 Tip: Use a vegetable peeler to remove any blemishes from carrots for a cleaner look.
Simmer Base: In a large pot, combine carrots, apricots, water, honey, cinnamon, salt, and ginger. Stir to coat.
💡 Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning, especially if simmering for an extended period.
Cook Until Tender: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender (about 30-40 minutes).
💡 Tip: The stew should reduce to a thick, syrupy consistency. Add water if it becomes too dry.
Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
💡 Tip: For a richer flavor, let the tzimmes rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Carrots
The star of this tzimmes, carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. Use fresh, firm carrots for best results.
Substitutions: Sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor profile.
Dried Apricots
These add tartness and chewiness. Look for unsulfured apricots for a more natural flavor.
Substitutions: Prunes or dried cherries can be used for a different taste.
Honey
Provides natural sweetness without refined sugar. Use raw honey for the best flavor.
Substitutions: Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used in a pinch.
Cinnamon
Adds warm, spicy notes that complement the sweetness. Use ground cinnamon rather than cinnamon sticks.
Substitutions: Nutmeg or allspice can be used for a different flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tzimmes
🍯 Sweetness Balance
Taste before adding honey. Carrots are naturally sweet, so you may need less than the recipe specifies.
🔪 Uniform Cuts
Uniform carrot pieces ensure even cooking. Use a mandoline for precise cuts if desired.
⏳ Make-Ahead Tip
This tzimmes improves in flavor over time. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.
🥄 Garnish Ideas
Finish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flair.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Option
Use certified gluten-free apricots and ensure all spices are gluten-free.
Vegan Version
Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
Spicy Twist
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
Nuts & Seeds
Stir in chopped walnuts or slivered almonds for added texture and crunch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast chicken or brisket for a classic holiday pairing
- Garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the sweet sauce
- Crusty sourdough bread for dipping
🍷 Drink Pairings:
A sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer complements the tzimmes' sweetness, while a bold red wine pairs well with richer main dishes.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare tzimmes up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Tzimmes will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen over time.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the tzimmes is too thick.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my tzimmes too dry?
A: Add more water or broth during cooking. The tzimmes should have a syrupy consistency, not a dry texture.
Q: Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
A: Yes, but use 1 cup chopped fresh apricots and increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Q: How do I prevent the carrots from burning?
A: Use a heavy-bottomed pot and stir occasionally. If the tzimmes starts to stick, add a splash of water.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Jewish holiday tzimmes is more than just a side dish—it's a celebration of tradition, family, and the sweetness of life. With its vibrant color and comforting aroma, it's sure to become a staple at your holiday table.
Whether you're honoring Jewish traditions or simply looking for a festive, flavorful dish, this tzimmes will bring warmth and joy to your meal. Pair it with roast chicken or brisket for a complete holiday feast that honors heritage while embracing modern simplicity.
