4.88 57 Published Mar 14, 2022, Updated Aug 13, 2024
What is Charoset?
Charoset is a sweet, brown, pebbly paste of fruits and nuts, representing the mortar used between bricks by the Jewish slaves to build cities in Egypt. The mixture varies depending on region. For instance, an ashkenazi charoset recipe from Eastern Europe would typically include nuts, chopped sweet apples (usually galas or fujis), cinnamon and sweet wine whereas the Sephardic recipe is thicker and contains ingredients native to the Middle East such as raisins, figs and dates. I’ve had several different versions of charoset and have liked them all, however being a dried fruit lover, I absolutely love the texture and taste of the Sephardic version. Luckily Bubbie was willing to share her recipe so I could make it myself (and share it with you)!
Ingredients for Sephardic Charoset
The ingredient list for charoset is pretty minimal! Here’s what you’ll need:
dried fruit – a combination of raisins, medjool dates, dried figs. If your dates seem dry, you can soak them in water for 5-10 minutes to rehydrate before using. walnuts – this is what I typically use, but you can also use pecans applesauce – look for unsweetened applesauce if you’re using store-bought our make your own using my easy applesauce recipe sweet red wine or fruit juice – Manischewitz wine is what the recipe calls for, but I have used pomegranate juice, cherry juice and grape juice. They all work great.
How to Make Charoset
For this charoset, you’ll need a food processor or blender because the mixture is blended into a paste rather than just chopped. Here’s how to make it: Pulse: Pulse until the mixture looks like a coarse paste. Remove the charoset from the processor and place it into a bowl or container. Enjoy: Serve as a spread for matzoh.
How to Serve Charoset
Charoset is traditionally served at the Passover Seder and used as a spread on matzoh, but that doesn’t mean you have to be Jewish to enjoy it. Maybe it’s the fruit and nut lover in me, but I honestly think this spread would be delicious on just about anything. I already have plans to add the charoset to my oatmeal and yogurt bowls this week. It would also be phenomenal on a cheese plate or charcuterie board. The possibilities are endless.
How to Store Charoset
This recipe can easily be made ahead of time! Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for later use. The charoset should last for 5-7 days in the fridge. This recipe makes about 3.5 cups so if you’re only making it for a small family, you could easily halve the recipe.
More Passover-Friendly Recipes
Coconut Macaroons Chocolate Coconut Macaroons Easy Fruit Salad Israeli Salad Healthy Passover Recipes
