Name: Barefoot Contessa Tzimmes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
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)

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When 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: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and cubing your butternut squash and sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Slice your carrots into hearty 2-inch pieces — they’ll soften beautifully but still hold their shape. Finely dice the onion, which will melt into the base and add natural sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, deep non-stick pan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions first and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. The gentle browning brings out a sweet, savory flavor that sets the stage.

Step 3: Layer in the Roots

Add your butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots to the pan. Stir gently to coat them in the onion-flavored oil. Let them cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they begin to soften and slightly caramelize at the edges.

Step 4: Add Your Sweet-Savory Magic

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option). Pour this mixture into the pan. Add your prunes, a small knob of grated ginger, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer & Let It Transform

Stir gently, reduce heat to low, and cover the pan with a lid. Let it simmer slowly for 30–40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent sticking. The vegetables will soak in all the flavor while becoming tender and delicious.

Step 6: Finish with Richness

Remove the lid for the final 10–15 minutes of cooking. Add a few dots of unsalted butter on top and stir gently — the butter adds gloss, flavor, and richness. Cook uncovered to allow excess liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to concentrate.

Step 7: Serve

Once your vegetables are fork-tender and glossy, remove from heat. The dish should smell like warm, citrus-kissed autumn! Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

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.

barefoot contessa tzimmes copycat recipe

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

Sharon Brown

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.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 10

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Jewish

Servings

Calories 442 kcal

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