Matzo Ball Soup Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Matzo ball soup is a warm, comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with fluffy garlic knots. These buttery knots are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

For a fresh contrast, serve tangy coleslaw with crisp cabbage and carrots, adding a delightful crunch. Sweet rugelach pastries make an ideal dessert, balancing the meal with fruity, nutty flavors.

Together, these sides create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Growing up, matzo ball soup was a staple in my family’s kitchen. Imagine walking into the house on a chilly day and being enveloped by the warm, savory aroma of chicken broth simmering on the stove. It was a dish that brought comfort and a sense of belonging. 

Fast forward to my adult years, and I’ve clocked countless hours experimenting with various recipes to elevate this traditional dish. Let me share with you not just the recipe, but the reasons why this matzo ball soup hits the sweet spot of flavor and nostalgia.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Best Ever Twice Baked Potatoes
• Easy Chicken Taco Soup
• Curry Chicken And Rice

Why This Recipe Works

So, what makes this matzo ball soup stand out? Here are a few reasons that really matter:

1. Homemade Chicken Broth
Using fresh, homemade chicken broth sets a solid foundation. The depth of flavor achieved from simmering chicken, vegetables, and spices for a few hours is unparalleled. You can really taste the difference compared to store-bought stock.

2. Perfectly Fluffy Matzo Balls
The matzo balls in this soup achieve an incredible texture. I use a combination of matzo meal, baking powder, and seltzer to create light, fluffy balls. This balances beautifully against the richness of the broth.

3. Fresh Ingredients
Every ingredient comes into play here. From the vibrant veggies to the fresh herbs, each element contributes its own unique essence, making the soup vibrant and full of life.

4. Personal Touch
Every family has their spin on matzo ball soup. I sprinkle in my own touch with fresh dill and chives. It’s these small details that make a meal memorable and unique.

How Does It Taste?

The first spoonful of matzo ball soup sends warmth radiating through you. It’s a delightful blend of savory chicken, a hint of garlic, and the bright notes of fresh herbs. 

The matzo balls themselves are tender, almost like little clouds, offering a satisfying bite that absorbs the impressive flavors from the broth. Each sip tells a story of family gatherings, childhood memories, and perhaps a bit of nostalgia.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Matzo Ball Soup Variations?

Not all matzo ball soups are created equal. What differentiates my rendition is primarily the broth’s complexity and the precise technique I employ to achieve the perfect matzo ball texture. 

Here, we make an effort to infuse every flavor, ensuring that when you take a bite, you’re not just filled but truly satisfied. 

The use of rendered chicken fat, or schmaltz, adds a richness missing in many recipes. Plus, the inclusion of fresh dill provides a bright counter to the savory notes of the broth.

The Ingredients

For the chicken broth:

3 1/2 quarts chilled water

1 whole chicken, or 4 to 5 pounds of chicken leg quarters

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped

1 full bulb of garlic, halved crosswise

1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt

4 carrots

3 crisp celery ribs

10 sprigs flat-leaf parsley

1 small bay leaf

2 medium-sized golden onions

1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the matzo balls:

1 cup matzo meal

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus extra for boiling water

1/4 cup rendered chicken fat (schmaltz) or 4 tablespoons unsalted melted butter

1 tablespoon finely minced chives

1/4 cup plain seltzer, club soda, or cold chicken stock

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish

5 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Broth

Begin by filling a large stockpot with the chilled water. Add the whole chicken or chicken leg quarters to the pot. Toss in peppercorns, parsnips, halved garlic, kosher salt, carrots, celery, parsley, bay leaf, onions, and dried thyme. 

Bring to a gentle boil, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Matzo Balls

While the broth simmers, focus on the star of the show—the matzo balls. In a mixing bowl, combine matzo meal, baking powder, and salt. 

In another bowl, mix chicken fat (or melted butter), chives, and seltzer. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and stir into the wet mixture. Combine both mixtures. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Shape the Matzo Balls

After the resting period, bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Wet your hands, then shape the matzo mixture into balls about the size of a walnut. Drop them carefully into the boiling water. Cook for about 20 minutes until they expand and become fluffy.

Step 4: Strain the Broth

Once your broth is ready, strain it through a fine sieve into another pot. Discard the solids. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Return the strained broth to the heat.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Add cooked matzo balls to the broth. Let them soak in the soup for 5-10 minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh dill and a sprinkle of chives.

Notes

• Chill the Dough: Once mixed, chilling the matzo ball dough is crucial for achieving fluffy balls.
  
• Don’t Overwork: Handle the mixture gently. Overworking can lead to dense matzo balls.
  
• Adjust for Salt: Always taste your broth before serving. It might need a touch more salt depending on your preference.
  
• Add More Veggies: If you enjoy a heartier soup, consider adding sweet peas or corn.
  
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to three months.
  

Nutrition Information

Matzo Ball Soup Nutrition Facts

How Do You Store This Matzo Ball Soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to freeze it, portion out the soup and matzo balls separately. The matzo balls can absorb too much broth when frozen, so it’s best to add them fresh when serving later.

Sides for Matzo Ball Soup

1. Garlic Knots
These light and buttery rolls make an excellent pairing with matzo ball soup. Brush them with garlic butter and sprinkle on parsley before serving, and you have a side that compliments the soup’s flavor perfectly.

2. Classic Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw balances the hearty soup. Its crunchiness and tanginess cut through the rich broth. You can include shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. Consider adding diced apples for sweetness.

3. Rugelach
These sweet pastries are a delightful end to your meal. With various fillings from apricot jam to walnuts, it’s an ideal dessert that leaves you with a satisfying sweet note after the savory soup.

Alternatives for Ingredients

1. Chicken Broth
If you don’t have time for homemade broth, store-bought chicken or vegetable broth can work, though the flavor will be notably different. Look for low-sodium varieties for best results.

2. Matzo Meal Alternatives
For gluten-free options, consider using ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly.

3. Schmaltz Alternatives
If you can’t find schmaltz, any neutral cooking oil can replace it, but refrain from using strong-flavored oils. Butter is also a nice alternative, lending a similar richness.

4. Fresh Herbs
If you don’t have access to fresh dill or chives, dried herbs can work in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount called for, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

Matzo ball soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It encompasses warmth, family, and a deep connection to culture and tradition. Whether you’re cooking it for a holiday or just to share with loved ones, it has an incredible ability to bring people together. 

Each bowl is filled with not just ingredients, but history and heart. So, the next time that chill in the air hits, remember this recipe. It’s not just food, but a comforting hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. Let’s get cooking!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Easy Chicken Taco Soup
• Homemade Burger Seasoning
• Microwave Corn On The Cob