Sharon BrownWhen you think about serving a delightful Tzimmes, consider what complements its rich sweetness and hearty ingredients. A simple roasted chicken or brisket pairs exceptionally well, providing a savory contrast to the dish’s natural sweetness. You might also serve it alongside a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
For a vegetarian option, grilled veggies or a fresh quinoa salad will work nicely, adding texture and brightness to your meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some crusty bread? A fresh baguette or even garlic bread can be perfect, soaking up any leftover juices.
Now, let’s dive into this delicious Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes recipe.
Every family has that one dish that brings everyone together. For many, Tzimmes is a treasured staple. It’s not just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate. Whether it’s a Jewish holiday or a simple Sunday dinner, Tzimmes holds a place of honor on the table.
But let’s face it: many of us are short on time. That’s where the Barefoot Contessa comes in. Her easy and accessible recipes crack the code on bringing gourmet meals into our busy lives.
Here, we’ll explore how to whip up a delightful Tzimmes that will warm hearts and bellies alike. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a connection to tradition—and with a few modern twists, it’s ready for your dinner table tonight.
What is Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes?
Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish dish made from sweet root vegetables, prunes, and sometimes meat. It’s often served during Rosh Hashanah or Passover as a way to wish for a sweet year ahead.
The Barefoot Contessa’s version combines butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, and prunes, all simmered together in a sweet and savory sauce. If you’re picturing a warm, comforting dish that captures the essence of home, you’re on the right track.
This recipe marries classic ingredients with simple technique, making it approachable for any home cook. It’s also versatile, easy to make ahead of time, and can serve as a delightful side dish or even a main attraction.
Why You’ll Love This Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes Recipe
This Tzimmes recipe is not just about hitting the sweet notes. It’s an orchestra of flavors, where each ingredient plays a crucial role.
First off, the base of butternut squash and sweet potatoes brings a hearty texture while delivering a nutty sweetness. The addition of carrots adds a fresh crunch, bringing balance to the dish. You’ll notice they soak up the flavors beautifully.
Now, let’s talk about the prunes. They add a surprising depth, enriching the sweetness and creating a sublime harmony with the spices. Ground ginger and cinnamon have a playful yet comforting role, infusing warmth and capturing the essence of holiday scents wafting through the kitchen.
What’s more? This recipe is highly adaptable. You can scale it up for a crowd or cut it down for an intimate dinner. Kids love it, and trust me, even skeptics will find themselves going back for seconds.
Plus, the ease of preparation is unbeatable. A little chopping, a little stirring, and the oven does the rest of the work. Most importantly, it fills the air with an enticing aroma, setting the stage for a memorable meal.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes
Gather these ingredients before you delve into cooking:
- 1 cup homemade chicken broth (or high-quality store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
- ½ cup freshly squeezed juice from 2 large oranges
- 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and chopped into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1½-inch chunks
- 1 pound carrots, scrubbed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cups finely diced yellow onions (about 2 large)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups pitted prunes
- Quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons diced unsalted butter (for a kosher option, consider using margarine or vegetable broth)
Stocking your kitchen with these ingredients will set you up for success.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven creates that crispy, caramelized edge we love while keeping the inside perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables
Next, peel and cube the butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Cut the carrots into larger pieces, about 2 inches in length, for a hearty bite. The onion, finely diced, will add a sweet base flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, maple syrup, and chicken broth. This mixture is the flavorful liquid that’ll transform our roots.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In a large baking dish, layer the butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions. Pour the orange juice mixture over the vegetables. Add the prunes, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle toss to guarantee everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Drizzle with Oil and Dot with Butter
Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the top of the vegetables for richness. Then, dot the dish with small chunks of unsalted butter to enhance the flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 90 minutes. Halfway through, stir to prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Finish Uncovered
Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow for a delightful caramelization. The dish should become golden brown and fragrant.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When the vegetables are fork-tender, your Tzimmes is ready to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for a pop of color.
Notes
Here are some tips to ensure your Tzimmes turns out perfectly:
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to save time.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup to your liking. If you prefer less sweetness, add less.
- Texture Matters: Cut the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. This will help prevent mushiness.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: Letting it bake long enough develops complex flavors. Patience is key here!
- Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during baking for a herby twist.
Storage Tips
Leftovers of Tzimmes can hang out in your fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
You can also freeze Tzimmes! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you want to serve it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your Tzimmes experience:
- With Roast Chicken: Serve alongside roasted chicken for a comforting and hearty dinner.
- As a Side for Pastrami: Pair with pastrami sandwiches for a fun, twisty take on a classic combo.
- On a Bed of Quinoa: Spoon over fluffy quinoa for a nutritious vegetarian meal.
- In a Grain Bowl: Mix with brown rice and greens for a hearty grain bowl that packs a nutritional punch.
- As a Standalone Dish: Enjoy by itself, garnished with fresh parsley for a vegan or vegetarian option.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes?
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to experiment, here are some great substitutes:
- Yams for Sweet Potatoes: Yams can replace sweet potatoes while providing a slightly different texture. They also hold up well during cooking.
- Dried Apricots for Prunes: Try dried apricots instead of prunes for a different sweet element. They can brighten up the dish with their tartness.
- Vegetable Broth for Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth to keep it entirely vegetarian without compromising flavor.
- Maple Syrup Alternatives: Honey or agave syrup can easily replace maple syrup if that’s what you have on hand.
- Fresh Ginger for Ground: Freshly grated ginger instead of ground will give it a sharper, more fragrant kick.
Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup homemade chicken broth or high-quality store-bought
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed juice from 2 large oranges
- 2 pounds butternut squash peeled and chopped into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and cubed into 1½-inch chunks
- 1 pound carrots scrubbed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cups finely diced yellow onions about 2 large
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups pitted prunes
- Quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons diced unsalted butter for a kosher option, consider using margarine or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven creates that crispy, caramelized edge we love while keeping the inside perfectly tender.
- Next, peel and cube the butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Cut the carrots into larger pieces, about 2 inches in length, for a hearty bite. The onion, finely diced, will add a sweet base flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, maple syrup, and chicken broth. This mixture is the flavorful liquid that’ll transform our roots.
- In a large baking dish, layer the butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions. Pour the orange juice mixture over the vegetables. Add the prunes, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle toss to guarantee everything is evenly coated.
- Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the top of the vegetables for richness. Then, dot the dish with small chunks of unsalted butter to enhance the flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 90 minutes. Halfway through, stir to prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow for a delightful caramelization. The dish should become golden brown and fragrant.
- When the vegetables are fork-tender, your Tzimmes is ready to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for a pop of color.
Notes
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to save time.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup to your liking. If you prefer less sweetness, add less.
- Texture Matters: Cut the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. This will help prevent mushiness.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: Letting it bake long enough develops complex flavors. Patience is key here!
- Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during baking for a herby twist.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There you have it: the Barefoot Contessa’s Tzimmes recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, family feasts, or cozy dinners. This dish connects tradition and modern kitchens through soul-satisfying flavors and simple prep.
We’ve explored everything from pairing suggestions to substitutions, ensuring you’re equipped to make this dish your own. So whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, Tzimmes is an excellent dish to add to your repertoire.
Why not try it out for your next meal? I promise you’ll make memories—and maybe even some new family traditions. So get chopping and prepping! Your taste buds await this sweet adventure.
