Imagine a dish that whispers stories of generations past, where every spoonful carries the warmth of family traditions and the rich culinary heritage of Russian Jewish cuisine. This carrot tzimmes isn't just a side dish—it's a nostalgic journey that transforms humble carrots into a symphony of sweet, tender perfection that will transport you straight to your grandmother's kitchen. Get ready to unlock a recipe that has been lovingly preserved and passed down through generations, promising to become an instant favorite at your own family table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup prunes, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots carefully, then slice them into uniform diagonal pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, combine sliced carrots, chopped prunes, honey, and orange juice, stirring gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the carrot mixture and add a pinch of salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the dish.
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and place over medium-low heat, allowing the tzimmes to simmer slowly and develop rich, deep flavors.
- Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even caramelization, cooking for approximately 60-70 minutes until carrots are tender and liquid has reduced to a thick, glossy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more honey or salt if needed to balance the sweet and savory profile.
- Remove from heat and let the tzimmes rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving warm as a traditional side dish.
Tips
- • Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and sweetness • Cut carrots uniformly to ensure even cooking • Use low and slow heat to develop deep, rich flavors • Don't rush the cooking process—patience is key to caramelization • Taste and adjust sweetness with honey near the end of cooking • For extra depth, consider adding a splash of orange zest • Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully develop • This dish can be made ahead and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
