Charoset Recipe with Apples, Raisins, Walnuts, Red Wine, and Cinnamon Recipe
Introduction
Charoset is a sweet, spiced fruit mixture traditionally enjoyed during Passover. Its blend of apples, nuts, and wine creates a deliciously fragrant spread that pairs beautifully with crisp Matzo crackers.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 Gala apples
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 tablespoons sweet red wine
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 Matzo crackers
Instructions
- Step 1: Core and finely chop the Gala and Granny Smith apples. Chop the walnuts into small pieces.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, walnuts, raisins, honey, sweet red wine, the juice of one lemon, and ground cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Alternatively, you can let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes if short on time.
- Step 4: Serve the charoset on its own or spread it on Matzo crackers for a traditional and delicious treat.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, try adding finely chopped almonds or pecans in place of walnuts.
- If you prefer a smoother charoset, pulse the ingredients briefly in a food processor before chilling.
- Substitute sweet red wine with grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Storage
Store leftover charoset in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled but can also be brought to room temperature if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare charoset in advance?
Yes, charoset improves in flavor after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Is charoset always served with Matzo?
While traditionally served with Matzo during Passover, charoset can also be enjoyed with plain crackers or as a sweet spread on toast.
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Charoset Recipe with Apples, Raisins, Walnuts, Red Wine, and Cinnamon Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Charoset is a traditional Jewish dish enjoyed during Passover, combining sweet and tart flavors with a mixture of apples, nuts, raisins, and spices. This easy-to-make recipe blends Gala and Granny Smith apples with walnuts, raisins, honey, and cinnamon, enhanced by a touch of sweet red wine and fresh lemon juice. Served chilled or at room temperature, Charoset is perfectly paired with crunchy matzo for a delightful and symbolic treat.
Ingredients
Fruit and Nuts
- 2 Gala Apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 Granny Smith Apple, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup Walnut, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Raisins
- 1 Lemon, juiced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Sweet Red Wine
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
To Serve
- 8 pieces Matzo
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the peeled and chopped Gala and Granny Smith apples, finely chopped walnuts, raisins, honey, sweet red wine, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon into a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until all components are well combined to a uniform consistency.
- Chill or Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and develop. Alternatively, you can let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes if you prefer to serve it sooner, which also softens the texture slightly.
- Serve: Enjoy the charoset on its own or serve it alongside crunchy matzo pieces for a traditional Passover dish. This preparation can be served chilled or at room temperature based on preference.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp apples for the best texture and flavor contrast in the charoset.
- Adjust honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet charoset.
- For a smoother texture, pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor but avoid over-processing to maintain some chunkiness.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If unavailable, substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Jewish
Keywords: Charoset, Passover recipe, Jewish holiday, traditional dish, matzo, sweet apples, walnut, no-cook recipe
