Matzo ball soup is a comforting traditional soup featuring light, fluffy dumplings made from matzo meal simmered in savory chicken broth. Often called “Jewish penicillin,” this soup is warming, nourishing, and perfect for holidays or cozy dinners.
With tender matzo balls, aromatic broth, and simple ingredients, it’s a timeless recipe loved by many families.
👉 Prep time: 15 minutes
👉 Cook time: 40 minutes
👉 Difficulty: Easy–Medium
👉 Servings: 4–6 bowls
Why You’ll Love This Matzo Ball Soup
• Warm and comforting homemade soup
• Fluffy matzo balls that soak up rich broth
• Simple ingredients with classic flavor
• Perfect for cold days or family dinners
• Traditional dish served during Passover
This soup delivers rich chicken flavor and soft dumplings that melt in your mouth.
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients List
For the Matzo Balls
• 1 cup matzo meal
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted chicken fat
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Soup
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
👉 Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.
Ingredient Tips
• Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor
• Chill the matzo ball mixture before forming the balls
• Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking
🍲 How to Make Matzo Ball Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Make the Matzo Ball Mixture
In a bowl whisk together:
• Eggs
• Oil
• Water or broth
• Salt and pepper
Stir in the matzo meal until combined.
Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes.
Step 2: Form the Matzo Balls
With wet hands, form the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup
In a large pot bring chicken broth to a simmer.
Add carrots, celery, and onion.
Step 4: Cook the Matzo Balls
Carefully drop matzo balls into the simmering broth.
Cover and cook 25–30 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Taste broth and adjust seasoning.
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Matzo ball soup pairs well with:
• Fresh crusty bread
• Simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Pickles or traditional deli sides
It’s often served as a starter during holiday meals.
🧊 Storage Tips
• Store soup in the refrigerator up to 4 days
• Keep matzo balls in broth to stay moist
• Freeze soup for up to 2 months
🔄 Variations You Can Try
• Fluffy matzo balls – add a pinch of baking powder
• Herb matzo balls – mix parsley or dill into the dough
• Vegetarian version – use vegetable broth
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my matzo balls dense?
Overmixing or skipping the chilling step can make them heavy.
Can I make matzo balls ahead of time?
Yes, store them in broth in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Are matzo balls supposed to float?
Yes, properly cooked matzo balls usually float in the broth.
Matzo Ball Soup (Classic Comfort Soup)
Description
Matzo ball soup is a comforting traditional soup featuring light, fluffy dumplings made from matzo meal simmered in savory chicken broth. Often called “Jewish penicillin,” this soup is warming, nourishing, and perfect for holidays or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Matzo Balls
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup oil
- ¼ cup water or broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Soup
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 1 onion
- Dill or parsley
Instructions
- Mix eggs, oil, water, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in matzo meal and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Form mixture into small balls.
- Bring broth with vegetables to simmer.
- Drop matzo balls into broth and cook 25–30 minutes.
- Garnish with herbs and serve.
Final Thoughts
Matzo ball soup is a heartwarming classic known for its comforting broth and soft dumplings. Whether served during holidays or as a cozy homemade meal, it’s a dish that brings warmth and tradition to the table.
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