Charoset Recipe with Apples, Raisins, Walnuts, and Red Wine Recipe
Introduction
Charoset is a traditional Jewish dish enjoyed during Passover, featuring a sweet and spiced blend of apples, nuts, and wine. It’s simple to prepare and brings a delightful balance of flavors that complement Matzo perfectly.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and finely chop the Gala apples and Granny Smith apple. Roughly chop the walnuts. Place the chopped apples, walnuts, raisins, honey, sweet red wine, juice of the lemon, and ground cinnamon into a large mixing bowl.
- Step 2: Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Alternatively, leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes if short on time.
- Step 4: Serve the charoset chilled or at room temperature alongside Matzo. Enjoy on its own or use it as a flavorful spread.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, toast the walnuts lightly before chopping.
- Substitute sweet red wine with grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a spicier twist.
- Grate the apples instead of chopping for a smoother consistency.
Storage
Store charoset in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and enjoy chilled or at room temperature. It is not recommended to freeze as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare charoset ahead of time?
Yes, charoset actually benefits from resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
Is charoset gluten-free?
The fruit and nut mixture itself is gluten-free; however, Matzo typically contains gluten. Use gluten-free Matzo or enjoy charoset on its own if you need a gluten-free option.
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Charoset Recipe with Apples, Raisins, Walnuts, and Red Wine Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Kosher
Description
Charoset is a traditional Jewish dish symbolizing the mortar used by Hebrew slaves in Egypt. This sweet and fragrant mixture combines apples, walnuts, raisins, honey, cinnamon, and sweet red wine to create a delicious spread perfect for Passover celebrations. Served chilled or at room temperature alongside crispy matzo, this recipe is simple to prepare and offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Fruit and Nuts
- 2 Gala Apples
- 1 Granny Smith Apple
- 1/2 cup Walnuts
- 1/2 cup Raisins
Liquids and Sweeteners
- 2 tablespoons Sweet Red Wine
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1 Lemon (juiced)
Spices and Others
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 8 Matzo crackers (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and core the Gala and Granny Smith apples, then finely chop or grind them into small pieces. Coarsely chop the walnuts as well.
- Combine Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped Gala apples, Granny Smith apple, walnuts, raisins, honey, sweet red wine, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Chill or Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the charoset for about 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Alternatively, you can keep it at room temperature for 30 minutes if you prefer to serve it sooner.
- Serve: Enjoy the charoset spread on its own or as a complement to matzo crackers. Serve chilled or at room temperature according to preference.
Notes
- Chilling the charoset enhances the flavor but serving it at room temperature is also traditional.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the mixture in a food processor before chilling.
- Use kosher-for-Passover sweet red wine to keep the recipe compliant with holiday dietary laws.
- For a nut-free version, walnuts can be omitted or replaced with soaked almonds as per dietary needs.
- Store leftover charoset in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment/Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Jewish
Keywords: charoset, Passover, Jewish side dish, traditional, apples, walnuts, sweet wine, matzo spread
