The word chraime has roots in an Arabic word meaning hot.

Served over couscous, rice or quinoa, this sweet and spicy tomato-based stew is a great weeknight meal.

Excerpted from Nosh: Plant-Forward Recipes Celebrating Modern Jewish Cuisine, by Micah Siva.

a recipe for the Spiced Cauliflower Chraime

Photo:Micah Siva

Copyright 2024 by Micah Siva.

Published by The Collective Book Studio.

Micah Siva

When I was growing up, the kitchen island was the hub of our home.

Their penchant for travel took us on our first family trip to Israel when I was 12.

We stayed with our cousin, Yossi, in Tel Aviv.

The stew classically features white fish (either whole or in fillets) in a spicy tomato broth.

But in my version of chraime, I forgo the fish for one of my favorite vegetablescauliflower.

Sometimes, for added protein, Ill add a can of chickpeas or cubes of tofu.

The fragrant stew is often served on Friday evenings for Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest.

I think its delicious anytimeI especially like to let it bubble away while a loaf of challah bakes.

Leaving core intact, cut the cauliflower into 6 wedges.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften, 5 to 6 minutes.

Add broth, tomatoes, raisins and lemon juice; stir to combine.

Arrange the cauliflower wedges in the pan in a single layer; bring to a boil.

Drizzle with date (or maple) syrup and sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

To make ahead

Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

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