Carrot Tzimmes

Is it possible to sit down at a Jewish religious celebration without being served tzimmes? Is it in even thinkable not to have tzimmes on Rosh Hashana, when carrots symbolize gold coins and the honey symbolizes a sweet New Year? Here’s a favorite recipe:

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 lb 8 oz sliced carrots
• salt and pepper
• juice of one orange
• 1/2″ piece fresh root ginger peeled and cut into thin slivers
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup water

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat the margarine in a wide pan over a medium high flame. Stir in the carrot slices, add salt and pepper to taste and all other ingredients.
2. Bring to a boi, reduce heat to low and simmer covered, for 15 minutes or until tender. Increase the heat and cook uncovered until the liquid is reduced and the carrots well glazed, while stirring occasionally.

VARIATION

For spicier Sephardic carrots omit the orange and ginger. Boil carrots until tender. Drain. Heat the oil. Stir in 1 teaspoon of of ground cumin, 1 seeded chopped fresh red chile pepper. 1 garlic clove, chopped and the juice of 1 lemon. Cook, stir for 1 minute, Add the carrots and honey and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Cook until the liquid is evaporated and the carrots are tender and well coated. Sprinkle with 1-2 tablespoons of mint.

Enjoy, gentle reader, enjoy!

CS