Tzimmes, tsimmes, and other spelling variants (Yiddish, Hebrew: צימעס) is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish dish[1] in which the principal ingredients are diced or sliced carrots or yams, often combined with dried fruits like prunes or raisins, or chunks of meat (usually brisket or flank steak). [2][3] The dish is cooked slowly over low heat and flavored with honey and sometimes cinnamon.[4]
Tzimmes is often part of the Rosh Hashanah meal, when it is traditional to eat sweet and honey-flavored dishes. The round slices of carrot bring to mind gold coins, symbolizing the hope of prosperity in the year to come. [5]
The name may come from the German words zum (for) and essen (eating). Some say the word is a corruption of the word 'simmer.' "To make a big tzimmes over something" is a Yinglish expression that means to make a big fuss.[3]
References
- ^ Holiday food
- ^ Merriam-Webster dictionary: tzimmes
- ^ a b Joan Nathan, Joan Nathan's Jewish Holiday Cookbook, Schocken, 2004; page 237.
- ^ Whats4eats: carrot-tzimmes recipe
- ^ Tri City Herald: Carrot tzimmes