Sweet Potato and Carrot Tzimmes

I was very curious about the word 'tzimmes' since I had never heard it before. What was it? Could one have a tzimme singular? (It appears the answer to this last is no). Tzimmes, I learned, are a casserole whose prime ingredients are carrots and honey, and traditionally also includes beets and dried dates as well. This version riffed off of those traditional ingredients for a casserole with slightly different flavors. It makes a yummy sweet side dish. Prep time is super-quick, but be aware that it requires a long time in the oven.

Combine 1/2 cup carrot (sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices) and 1 pound sweet potato (peeled and cut into wedges) in an 8x8-inch baking dish. Drizzle with 1 and 1/2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil, and toss to combine.

Sprinkle with 1/4 cup dried apricots (cut into 1/4-inch thick strips), 1/4 cup packed organic brown sugar, 2 tablespoons golden raisins, 1/8 tsp. salt and 1/8 tsp. black pepper.

Combine 1/4 cup ginger ale, 2 tablespoons cranberry juice and 1 tablespoon orange juice, and drizzle over the carrot mixture. For the ginger ale, I used the organic Ginger Brew from Maine Root: www.maineroot.com Likewise, I prefer organic juices to generic brands - my suggestions are the Just Cranberry from R.W. Knudsen (www.knudsenjuices.com) and the orange juice from Whole Foods' 365 brand.

Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for an hour and fifteen minutes, stirring at the 45 minute mark. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes (the liquid should be slightly thick). 3/4 a cup is 270 calories.

Cost:
sweet potato $2.01
ginger ale $1.49
cranberry juice $6.99
orange juice $1.39