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Dorothy Thomas

Matzo Ball Soup Recipe

A comforting and classic Jewish dish, Matzo Ball Soup features fluffy matzo balls in a flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a bowl of warmth!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 6
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Ashkenazi, Jewish
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup matzo meal
  • 4 large eggs
  • ¼ cup chicken schmaltz (or vegetable oil for a lighter version)
  • ¼ cup seltzer water (or club soda)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Pot (6-8 quarts)
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and schmaltz (or oil) together.
  2. Add matzo meal, salt, pepper, and dill (if using). Mix well.
  3. Gradually stir in seltzer water until the mixture is uniform.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes (helps firm up the dough).
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water or chicken broth to a gentle boil.
  6. Wet hands and roll the dough into 1-inch balls (don’t over-handle; they expand while cooking).
  7. Drop matzo balls into boiling liquid, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes (don’t lift the lid!).
  8. In a separate pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until softened (~5 mins).
  9. Add garlic, broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  10. Gently transfer cooked matzo balls into the soup. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  11. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Fluffier Matzo Balls: Use seltzer and don’t overmix the dough.
  • Denser Matzo Balls: Refrigerate dough longer (up to 2 hours).
  • Make Ahead: Matzo balls can be cooked and stored in broth for up to 3 days.