Can we repair the world with charoset? Considering the lack of success we’ve seen with actual peace treaties and cease fire deals, I have to answer that question with a resounding, “no, obviously not.” However, the point of charoset, and Passover itself, draws more strength from symbolism and intention that concrete action. Every component of the Seder plate has a specific purpose, which is the start of any meaningful change, so maybe we’re closer to healing than we think.

What is Charoset?

Let’s back up a step. Charoset is classically made from chopped apples, walnuts, wine, and cinnamon. There are naturally many variations found throughout different cultures, with some adding dates, figs, or pomegranate seeds, just for starters. Sephardic Jews like theirs more like a paste or spread, while Ashkenazi Jews keep theirs coarse like a nutty fruit salsa. Regardless of the specifics, they’re all made to symbolize the mortar used by the Israelites during their enslavement in Egypt. It’s a reminder of the their hardships but also a means to balance the bitterness of maror (horseradish) as an act of resilience and the pursuit of justice against seemingly insurmountable suffering.

Tikkun Olam

In the midst of these trying times, I felt moved to make an even more meaningful, modern take on this essential staple. I’m calling this modern twist “Tikkun Charoset,” drawing from the Jewish concept of tikkun olam, a Hebrew phrase that means “repair the world.” Though it sounds radical, the concept has been a pillar of the community since at least the 1st millennium CE.

What Does This Have To Do With Charoset?

I’m glad you asked, dear reader! With each passing year, more optional symbols have been suggested to join the essentials on the seder plate, representing various social justice movements. I’d like to propose making them mandatory, front and center, by incorporating them right into the charoset.

• Oranges: For LGBTQIA equality
• Potatoes: To feed Ethiopian Jews and end starvation
• Chocolate or Cacao: For fair trade and the end of forced labor
• Banana: To shelter and nourish refugees
• Cashews: Supporting the troops, not the regime

The only additional unofficial amendments to the original set of symbols that I couldn’t find a way to incorporate were Miriam’s cup and acorns. Each piece of the puzzle has an inspiring origin story which I highly recommend you take a moment to read.

Healing With Charoset

Beyond what it represents, this unconventional foil to sweeten the bitterness of our affliction is simply a satisfying change of pace. Apples remain a constant at the foundation, forever reliable and accessible. Buttery sweet potatoes contrast with the crunch of toasted cashews, spiked with the bright citrus hit of orange juice and a hint of heady banana liqueur. Rich, earthy cacao nibs round out the experience with both substance and style. Though I have no illusions that it could actually fix all the world’s problems, I hope it might spread more awareness and that, at least, is a start.

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Yield: Makes 10 Servings

Tikkun Charoset

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Inspired by modern additions to the Passover Seder plate, this take on charoset is focused on hope and healing through sweetness and light.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Sweet Potato
• 3 Sweet Red Apples
• 1 Cup Toasted Cashews
• 1/3 Cup Orange Juice
• 3 Tablespoons Cacao Nibs
• 1 Tablespoon Banana Liqueur
• 1 Teaspoon Orange Zest
• 3/4 Teaspoon Ground Ginger
• 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1/4 Teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. Peel and finely dice the sweet potato. Place it in a small saucepan and add enough cold water to cover by an inch. Set over medium heat and bring to a boil. Cook just until tender; 1 - 3 minutes after the water boils. Drain and rinse with cold water thoroughly to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large bowl.
   
2. Core and finely dice the apples, adding them to the bowl. Roughly chop the cashews and add them along with the orange juice, cacao nibs, liqueur, zest, ginger, pepper, and salt. Let the charoset sit until the flavors meld, at least 30 minutes. Serve at room temperature.

Notes

If you'd rather not chop by hand, you can pulse the apples and cashews in a food processor fitted with the S blade attachment.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recommended Products

Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I have experience with all of these companies and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links.

• 
  Simply Organic, Ginger, 1.64 oz (46 g)
• 
  Navitas Organics Cacao Nibs, 8 oz. Bag — Organic, Non-GMO, Fair Trade, Gluten-Free
• 
  Now Foods, Real Food Organic, Whole, Raw Cashews, Unsalted, 10 oz (284 g)

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

10

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 143Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 146mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 3gSugar: 8gProtein: 3g

All nutritional information presented within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on BitterSweetBlog.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. Even though I try to provide accurate nutritional information to the best of my ability, these figures should still be considered estimations.