Matzo Balls, also known as matzo dumplings, are a staple in Jewish cuisine and a key component of dishes like Matzo Ball Soup. These dumplings are made from matzo meal, which is unleavened bread, combined with eggs, water, and a fat source like oil or chicken schmaltz (rendered chicken fat). The mixture is seasoned with salt and sometimes pepper or other herbs.
The ingredients are blended to form a sticky dough, which is then shaped into balls before being simmered or boiled in a flavorful broth. The result is light, fluffy, and buoyant matzo balls with a delicate texture. The cooking process infuses the matzo balls with the savory flavors of the broth.
Matzo Balls are renowned for their comforting and homestyle appeal, often enjoyed as part of traditional holiday meals or whenever a warm and nurturing dish is desired. They are versatile, taking on the flavors of the soup they are served in, and are cherished for their role in creating a satisfying and beloved comfort food.
A delicious Passover staple, Matzo ball soup is warm, comforting, and filling! Try these Matzo balls in this amazing soup recipe> https://mizenplace.com/recipe/matzo-ball-soup-with-chicken
Matzo Balls
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup schmaltz (rendered chicken fat), coconut oil or vegetable oil (kosher for Passover)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley, dill or cilantro
- 1 tsp salt more for cooking
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, schmaltz, stock, matzo meal, nutmeg, ginger and parsley. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Gently mix with a whisk or spoon. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 3 hours or overnight.
- To shape and cook the matzo balls, fill a wide, deep pan with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. With wet hands, take some of the mix and mold it into the size and shape of a Ping-Pong ball. Gently drop it into the boiling water, repeating until all the mix is used.
- Cover the pan, reduce heat to a lively simmer and cook matzo balls about 30 to 40 minutes for al dente, longer for light. If desired, the cooked matzo balls can be transferred to chicken or vegetable soup and served immediately. Alternatively, they may be placed on a baking sheet and frozen, then transferred to a freezer bag and kept frozen until a few hours before serving; reheat in chicken or vegetable soup or broth.
