Introduction

Matzo Ball Soup holds a cherished place in Jewish culinary tradition, particularly during Passover, a holiday that commemorates liberation and resilience. This dish brings warmth and comfort, capturing the essence of family gatherings and long-held customs. Our simplified recipe offers an easier way to enjoy this traditional soup, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Matzo Ball Soup’s origins trace back to Ashkenazi Jewish communities, where matzo, an unleavened bread, represents the Exodus from Egypt. Matzo balls, known as knaidlach in Yiddish, symbolize resilience and survival and are a beloved part of Jewish holiday meals, especially during Passover. This soup remains a heartfelt comfort food, evoking memories of loved ones and community.

Ingredients

Soup

• 1 Tbsp vegetable or canola oil ($0.04)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.16)
• 1 yellow onion, diced ($0.37)
• 3 carrots, diced ($0.32)
• 3 stalks celery, diced ($0.56)
• 1 chicken breast (about 3/4 lb.), bone-in for flavor ($1.33)
• 6 cups chicken broth** ($0.76)
• 2 cups water ($0.00)
• Freshly cracked pepper ($0.05)
• Few sprigs fresh dill ($1.19)

Matzo Balls

• 3 large eggs ($1.13)
• 3 Tbsp vegetable or canola oil ($0.12)
• 3/4 cup matzo meal ($0.80)
• 1 tsp salt ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder ($0.02)
• Freshly cracked pepper ($0.02)
• 3 Tbsp water ($0.00)

Optional Additions

• Parsley for garnish
• Chicken fat or schmaltz for richer flavor
• Sliced mushrooms for depth in broth

Tips for Success

• Refrigerate the matzo ball dough to give it structure before forming balls.
• Simmer gently to keep the matzo balls tender and prevent them from breaking apart.
• Use fresh herbs like dill for a refreshing contrast against the rich broth.

Instructions

1. Prep and Sauté the Vegetables
   Start by mincing the garlic and dicing the onion, celery, and carrots. Heat a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil, and sauté the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots until the onions become soft and translucent, approximately five minutes.
2. Add Chicken and Broth
   Place the chicken breast, chicken broth, 2 cups of water, freshly cracked pepper, and a sprig or two of dill into the pot. Cover with a lid and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Matzo Ball Mixture
   While the soup simmers, prepare the matzo ball dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and oil. Add the matzo meal, salt, baking powder, and freshly cracked pepper. Mix until well combined. Add 3 Tbsp water, stir until smooth, and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes.
4. Shred the Chicken
   After simmering, remove the chicken breast and shred it with a fork. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, adjusting salt and seasoning to taste if needed.
5. Form and Cook Matzo Balls
   Once the matzo ball mixture has cooled, form it into ping-pong-sized balls. Drop them into the simmering soup, covering the pot after each addition. Allow the soup to gently simmer with the lid on for 20 minutes, ensuring the matzo balls cook through without disturbing.
6. Serve
   Add a few sprigs of fresh dill right before serving for a burst of flavor. Enjoy this comforting soup with loved ones.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 2 Cups
• Calories: 317.98 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 23.36g
• Protein: 18.14g
• Fat: 17.66g
• Sodium: 1724.1mg
• Fiber: 1.96g

Conclusion and Recommendation

Matzo Ball Soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of heritage, culture, and shared moments. With its soft, fluffy matzo balls and nourishing broth, it’s perfect for cold evenings or as a comforting dish during festive gatherings.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish balances hearty flavors with wholesome ingredients. Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or using homemade broth for a richer flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, but for the best flavor, simmer the broth with the chicken bones if possible.
2. Are there gluten-free options for matzo balls?
   Yes, gluten-free matzo meal can be used as a substitute.
3. What can I substitute for dill?
   Fresh parsley or thyme can provide a similar herbal note.
4. How can I make the soup even richer?
   Use bone-in chicken and add a little schmaltz for a deeper flavor.
5. Can I freeze leftover matzo ball soup?
   Yes, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.