Description
Homemade Matzo Ball Soup is a classic, comforting dish featuring fluffy matzo balls cooked in a savory chicken broth with fresh herbs and vegetables. Perfect for chilly days or special family gatherings, this nourishing soup blends tradition and flavor for a heartwarming meal that satisfies both body and soul.
Ingredients
Scale
Matzo Ball Mixture
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons chicken fat or oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Broth and Vegetables
- 8 cups homemade or high-quality chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Matzo Ball Mixture: Whisk together the matzo meal, eggs, chicken fat or oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl until fully combined. Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the matzo meal to absorb moisture and bind properly.
- Shape the Matzo Balls: Using wet hands, gently form the mixture into small balls about the size of a walnut. Avoid packing them too tightly to keep the texture light and fluffy once cooked.
- Make the Broth: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant. Add the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and herbs. Let the broth simmer to develop a deep and comforting flavor.
- Cook the Matzo Balls: Carefully drop the matzo balls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook gently for 30 to 40 minutes until the balls puff up, are cooked through, and have absorbed the flavorful broth.
- Final Touches: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add fresh herbs before serving hot. Enjoy the tender matzo balls and savory broth that make this soup so satisfying.
Notes
- Resting the matzo ball batter in the fridge helps the balls hold together better during cooking.
- Use quality, homemade or premium store-bought chicken broth for the best flavor.
- Handle matzo balls gently and avoid overpacking to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- Simmer the broth gently to prevent the matzo balls from breaking apart.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning after cooking, as flavors concentrate during simmering.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Jewish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: matzo ball soup, homemade soup, Jewish cuisine, comfort food, gluten-free option, traditional soup, chicken broth, matzah balls