Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of traditional Jewish cuisine with these 18 mouthwatering sweet tzimmes recipes! A classic dessert originating from Eastern Europe and the Middle East, tzimmes are a delightful combination of fruits, vegetables, and spices that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with love and laughter.
From classic carrot and sweet potato combinations to innovative twists featuring maple syrup, honey, and coconut flakes, we’ve curated a diverse range of sweet tzimmes recipes that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a comforting treat to brighten up a chilly winter evening, these sweet tzimmes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of sweet tzimmes, sharing tried-and-true recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the sweetest corner of Jewish cuisine!
Classic Carrot and Sweet Potato Tzimmes
Tzimmes are a staple of Jewish cuisine, and this recipe is a twist on the classic. This sweet and savory side dish is perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine carrots, sweet potatoes, olive oil, onion, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Toss until vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Pour in chicken broth and honey; stir gently.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Honey Glazed Tzimmes with Prunes
This classic Jewish dish gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey glaze and plump prunes. The result is a rich, flavorful stew that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, sauté the onion and carrots in oil until tender.
3. Add chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Stir until combined.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and bake for 45 minutes or simmer on stovetop for 1 hour.
5. Add chopped prunes and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the prunes are rehydrated and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Maple Roasted Tzimmes with Apples
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples and carrots with the warmth of maple syrup, creating a deliciously sweet and savory tzimmes perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together apples, carrots, maple syrup, and olive oil until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the apples and carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Infused Tzimmes with Dried Apricots
A sweet and tangy twist on the traditional Jewish dish, this recipe combines the warmth of orange zest with the natural sweetness of dried apricots.
Ingredients:
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated carrot, diced sweet potato, chopped apricots, orange juice, honey, and cinnamon.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tzimmes mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Tzimmes with Raisins
This sweet and comforting dish is a twist on the traditional Jewish stew, tzimmes. The addition of cinnamon and raisins gives it a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine carrots, onion, and sweet potatoes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry mixture to the vegetables and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Pour in the broth and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with raisins.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Tzimmes Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef, sweet carrots, and juicy prunes in a richly flavored broth, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup pitted prunes (tzimmes)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add beef, onion, carrots, prunes, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegan Tzimmes with Butternut Squash
This sweet and savory vegan tzimmes recipe is a delicious twist on the classic Jewish dish, featuring roasted butternut squash and a medley of autumnal spices. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash, onion, and garlic with vegetable broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until squash is tender.
5. Remove foil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pineapple Tzimmes with Coconut Flakes
This tropical twist on the classic tzimmes recipe combines sweet pineapple chunks with aromatic spices and toasted coconut flakes. The result is a deliciously flavorful side dish or dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pineapple chunks, brown sugar, honey, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle coconut flakes and pecans (if using) evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pineapple is tender and the coconut flakes are toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Tzimmes with Parsnips
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of parsnips with the pungency of garlic and the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delicious tzimmes dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss parsnips with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the parsnip mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until parsnips are tender and caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tzimmes with Figs
This sweet and savory dish combines the warmth of tzimmes with the richness of balsamic glaze, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of figs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add carrots and figs; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pomegranate Molasses Tzimmes
Pomegranate Molasses Tzimmes: A Sweet and Sour Twist on a Classic Recipe
Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish stew, typically made with carrots, sweet potatoes, and dried fruits. This recipe adds a tangy twist by incorporating pomegranate molasses, creating a sweet and sour flavor profile that’s perfect for Rosh Hashanah or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots and sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add dried apricots, pomegranate molasses, and honey to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Return the mixture to the oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until apricots are rehydrated and flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ginger Pear Tzimmes with Walnuts
This sweet and savory tzimmes combines the natural sweetness of pears with the warmth of ginger, topped with crunchy walnuts. Perfect as a side dish or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced pears, grated ginger, brown sugar, honey, water, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pears are tender.
3. Stir in chopped walnuts during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Tzimmes with Caramelized Onions
A twist on the classic Jewish stew, this savory tzimmes combines tender vegetables and sweet caramelized onions for a hearty and flavorful dish. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the carrot and potato, cooking for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Cardamom Spiced Tzimmes with Dates
This traditional Jewish recipe gets a boost of aromatic flavor from cardamom, paired with sweet dates for a unique dessert. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried dates, pitted
– 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine carrots, sweet potato, honey, brown sugar, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add dates and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Pour in water and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Chicken and Tzimmes One-Pot Meal
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of chicken, sweet potatoes, and dried fruits, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, prunes, and raisins)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, dried fruits, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat with the tzimmes mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Golden Tzimmes with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic Jewish stew, this recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the creamy goodness of chickpeas. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine chickpeas, carrots, potato, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in honey and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika Tzimmes with Sweet Peppers
This vibrant and flavorful tzimmes recipe combines the sweetness of sweet peppers with the smokiness of paprika, creating a delicious and aromatic side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sweet peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the water or broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let tzimmes cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Tzimmes with Quinoa
This recipe combines the sweetness of carrots and sweet potatoes with the brightness of lemon zest, all wrapped up in a nutritious quinoa base. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced carrots and cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory world of tzimmes! This collection of 18 traditional recipes offers a variety of flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds. From classic carrot and sweet potato combinations to innovative twists featuring honey, maple, and pomegranate molasses, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked beef and vegetable stew, vegan butternut squash tzimmes, or even chicken and quinoa one-pot meals. With a range of spices and ingredients at your disposal, you’ll be sure to find the perfect sweet tzimmes recipe to suit your taste.
