This Ina Garten Tzimmes is sweet and savory, which uses sweet potatoes and prunes for a comforting holiday side dish. It’s a classic recipe, ready in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Ina Garten Tzimmes Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp good olive oil
- 3 cups chopped yellow onions (2 large)
- 1 lb carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (1½-inch)
- 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken stock (preferably homemade)
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 Tbsp kosher salt
- 1½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups pitted prunes
How To Make Ina Garten Tzimmes
- Preheat oven: Set oven temperature to 325°F.
- Sauté onions: In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-low. Sauté onions for about 15 minutes until tender and golden.
- Add vegetables and liquids: Stir in carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, chicken stock, orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Top with prunes: Place prunes on top of mixture without stirring.
- Simmer and bake: Bring mixture to a simmer, cover, and transfer to oven. Bake for 40–45 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir and serve: Gently stir, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Recipe Tips
-
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth. -
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate; reheat covered in the oven before serving. -
How do I prevent it from being too sweet?
Adjust sugar or prune quantity based on taste preference. -
Can I add meat to tzimmes?
Yes, brisket or short ribs are traditional additions for a heartier dish.
What To Serve With Tzimmes
This sweet-salty side pairs well with:
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Brisket or pot roast
- Challah bread or dinner rolls
- Fresh green salad
How To Store Tzimmes
Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
Tzimmes Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use dried apricots instead of prunes?
Yes, apricots or raisins can be used for a different flavor profile.
Can I make tzimmes in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6–7 hours or until vegetables are tender.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
Peeling is optional; scrub well if leaving the skin on.
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Ina Garten Tzimmes
Description
A sweet and savory vegetable side dish with carrots, sweet potatoes, prunes, and citrus — perfect for holidays and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Sauté onions in olive oil until tender (about 15 minutes).
- Add carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, stock, zest, juice, sugar, butter, cinnamon, salt, and pepper; stir to coat.
- Place prunes on top, bring to simmer, cover, and bake 40–45 minutes.
- Stir gently, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
