Matzo Ball Soup

Matzo Ball Soup, a timeless classic, gets a modern twist with light and fluffy matzo balls. This recipe combines a hearty chicken broth with savory matzo balls, creating a comforting and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Freeze: Up to 3 months

INGREDIENTS:

Broth Ingredients:

• 1 chicken leg and thigh portion
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, finely diced
• 1 quart (1 liter) water
• 1 sprig of fresh thyme
• 1 tsp celery salt
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Matzo Balls:

• 1 potato, about 4oz (115g), cooked and mashed
• 1⁄2oz (45g) fine matzo meal
• 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
• 1⁄2 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp sunflower oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 4 small sprigs of fresh thyme, to garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large saucepan, combine the chicken leg and thigh, finely chopped onion, thinly sliced leek, finely diced carrot, water, fresh thyme sprig, celery salt, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 1 hour. Add more water if needed.
2. Prepare the Matzo Balls: While the broth simmers, in a separate bowl, mix the mashed potato with fine matzo meal, baking powder, grated fresh ginger, chopped thyme, parsley, finely chopped garlic, and a little salt and pepper. Add the sunflower oil and mix well. Then, incorporate the beaten egg into the mixture until it forms a soft, slightly sticky dough. Shape the dough into 8 balls.
3. Finish the Soup: After an hour, discard the thyme sprig from the simmering broth. Carefully remove the chicken leg and thigh, and remove all the meat from the bones, discarding the skin. Chop the chicken meat and return it to the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. Cook the Matzo Balls: Bring the soup back to a simmer and gently drop in the matzo balls. Cover the pot and simmer for about 10 minutes until the matzo balls become fluffy and are cooked through.
5. Serve: Ladle the Matzo Ball Soup into warm soup bowls and garnish each bowl with a small sprig of fresh thyme. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup with friends and family.

This modern twist on a traditional favorite will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it for its timeless appeal or as a delightful update to a classic, Matzo Ball Soup is a comforting addition to any meal.