Last Updated on October 5, 2022 by Lauren Beck
Charoset is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish dish made from chopped apples, nuts, wine, and spices. It is typically served as part of the Passover Seder meal. But how long does charoset last in the fridge?
Typically, charoset will last for about a week in the fridge. However, if it is made with fresh ingredients, it may only last for 3-4 days. If you want your charoset to last longer, you can freeze it. Frozen charoset will last for 2-3 months.
What is Charoset?
Charoset is a sweet, thick paste made from chopped apples, nuts, wine, and spices. It is typically served as part of the Passover Seder meal [1]. The word “charoset” comes from the Hebrew word “cheres,” which means clay. This name is derived from the fact that charoset resembles the mortar used by the Jews when they were slaves in Egypt.
Charoset is a key part of the Passover Seder plate. It’s one of the “symbolic foods” that help tell the story of the Exodus from Egypt. Other symbolic foods on the Seder plate include:
- Maror (bitter herbs): These represent the bitterness of slavery. Common choices include horseradish, radishes, and endives.
- Chazeret (lettuce or cabbage): This represents the greens that spring forth in the springtime.
- Karpas (celery or parsley): This is dipped in salt water and represents the tears shed by the Israelites during their time in slavery.
- Zeroah (roasted lamb bone): This represents the sacrificial lamb that was offered up in the temple in Jerusalem.
- Beitzah (hard-boiled egg): This symbolizes new life and springtime.
When it’s time to eat the charoset, some people like to mix it with the maror (bitter herbs) to balance out the sweetness. Others simply enjoy it as is. However you eat it, charoset is a delicious way to remember the story of Passover.
Ingredients for Sephardic Charoset
Here’s the basic recipe for Sephardic charoset. You can easily double or triple the recipe as needed.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sweet red wine
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
- 1 pound (450 g) apples, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) raisins
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) diced dried apricots
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) diced pitted dates
Instructions
- Combine the wine, water, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the honey and stir until dissolved. Remove from the heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooled honey mixture, apples, raisins, almonds or walnuts, apricots, and dates.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Charoset
Charoset can be served alone as a dip, spread on matzo or crackers, or used as a filling for matzo balls. It can also be mixed into Passover Seders as a symbol of mortar used by the Israelites when they were slaves in Egypt.
If you’re not serving charoset right away, it will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
How to Store Charoset
Here are some tips on how to store charoset so it stays fresh:
- Keep it covered: Charoset will dry out if it’s left uncovered. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in a covered container.
- Store in the fridge: Charoset should be stored in the fridge to keep it fresh.
- Stir before serving: Charoset can separate as it sits. Be sure to stir it well before serving.
- Don’t freeze it: Freezing charoset can change the texture and taste. If you won’t be using it within 2 weeks, it’s best to compost it instead.
Can I make charoset ahead of time?
Yes, charoset can be made ahead of time. In fact, it’s best to make it at least a day in advance so the flavors have time to meld. Simply store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it.
Can you freeze Sephardic charoset?
No, charoset should not be frozen. Freezing can change the texture and taste of the dish. If you won’t be using it within 2 weeks, it’s best to compost it instead.
Can charoset be made with applesauce?
Yes, you can substitute applesauce for the grated apples in this recipe. However, the texture of the dish will be different than if you use grated apples. Applesauce is a smoother, more pureed consistency.
Do I have to peel apples for charoset?
No, you don’t have to peel the apples for this recipe. The skin will add color and texture to the dish. However, if you prefer, you can peel the apples before grating them.
Conclusion
Charoset is a delicious and symbolic dish served during Passover. It’s made with sweet red wine, honey, apples, and nuts, and can be served alone or used as a filling for matzo balls. Charoset will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to stir it before serving.
Reference:
- https://www.eater.com/2016/4/23/11477536/what-is-charoset-passover-seder
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