Sweet & Savory Polish Tzimmes with Apples and Carrots
This delightful Polish Apple & Carrot Tzimmes is a traditional dish that beautifully combines the sweetness of apples and carrots with the warmth of onion and spices. Originating from Jewish culinary traditions, this dish is a perfect accompaniment for Passover or any festive occasion. It features a luscious sauce made with orange juice and potato starch for a silky texture, creating a comforting melody of flavors that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is a wonderful way to honor heritage while providing a nutritious and delicious option for lunch or snacks. Whether served as a side dish or a stand-alone meal, this tzimmes is sure to impress family and friends alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
carrots
6 (peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith)
3 (peeled, cored, and sliced into thick wedges)
onion
3/4 cup (peeled and sliced, then sautéed until golden)
raisins
1/2 cup (none)
brown sugar or honey
1/4 cup (to taste)
salt
to taste (none)
white pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
orange juice
1 cup (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
potato starch
2 tablespoons (none)
vegetable oil
1-2 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.
2
In a saucepan, place the sliced carrots and pour in about 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil and cook the carrots for about 5 to 8 minutes until they are tender.
3
Add the apple wedges to the saucepan during the last 5 minutes of cooking time. Drain the vegetables and carefully transfer the cooked carrots and apples into the prepared casserole dish. Add the sautéed onions, raisins, and sprinkle with brown sugar or honey, along with salt and white pepper to taste; stir gently to combine.
4
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice and potato starch until smooth and blended. Pour this mixture over the carrot and apple blend in the casserole dish, ensuring an even coating.
5
Drizzle the vegetable oil over the top of the dish for added richness. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet & Savory Polish Tzimmes?
It is a traditional Jewish dish that combines apples and carrots with onions and spices, often served during Passover or other festive occasions.
What are the primary ingredients in this tzimmes recipe?
The main ingredients are carrots, tart apples, sautéed onions, raisins, and a sauce made from orange juice and potato starch.
Is this tzimmes recipe suitable for Passover?
Yes, this recipe uses potato starch instead of flour and traditional ingredients, making it a perfect accompaniment for Passover.
What type of apples should I use?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith, are recommended to balance the sweetness of the dish.
How should I prepare the carrots for this dish?
The carrots should be peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds before being boiled until tender.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use either 1/4 cup of brown sugar or honey depending on your preference.
What is the purpose of potato starch in this recipe?
Potato starch is used to thicken the orange juice, creating a silky and luscious sauce for the vegetables.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long do the carrots need to boil?
The carrots should boil for about 5 to 8 minutes until they are tender.
When should I add the apples during the cooking process?
Add the apple wedges to the saucepan during the last 5 minutes of the carrots' boiling time.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, fruits, and plant-based seasonings.
What size casserole dish is required?
A 2 1/2 quart casserole dish is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the onions for the tzimmes?
You should peel and slice the onions, then sauté them until they are golden before adding them to the mix.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, you can use either freshly squeezed or store-bought orange juice for the sauce.
What spices are used to season the dish?
The dish is seasoned with salt and approximately 1/8 teaspoon of white pepper.
Do I need to grease the casserole dish?
Yes, you should lightly grease the 2 1/2 quart casserole dish before adding the ingredients.
How long is the total baking time?
The total baking time is approximately 40 to 45 minutes.
Why is the dish covered with foil during baking?
The dish is covered for the first 30 minutes to trap moisture and ensure the ingredients cook through without drying out.
How do I know when the tzimmes is finished baking?
The tzimmes is done when the top is bubbling and has turned a golden brown color.
What type of oil is recommended for drizzling?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to be drizzled over the top before baking.
Can I add raisins to this dish?
Yes, 1/2 cup of raisins is included in the recipe to add sweetness and texture.
How thick should the apple wedges be sliced?
The apples should be sliced into thick wedges after being peeled and cored.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
This dish is best served warm to fully enjoy its comforting flavors.
What is the origin of Tzimmes?
Tzimmes originates from Jewish culinary traditions and is a staple in many heritage-focused meals.
Can this be served as a stand-alone meal?
While often served as a side dish, its nutritious ingredients also make it a great option for a light lunch or snack.
Is white pepper necessary?
White pepper is used for a subtle heat, but you can adjust the amount to your personal taste.
How many carrots are needed?
The recipe requires 6 carrots, peeled and sliced.
Can I substitute potato starch with something else?
While potato starch is traditional for Passover, other thickeners could be used in non-Passover settings, though the texture may vary.
Should the foil be removed at any point during baking?
Yes, remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is a nutritious option featuring whole vegetables, fruits, and heart-healthy fats.