Matzo Ball Soup
A comforting chicken broth filled with earthy mushrooms, perfect for warming up and soothing the soul, suitable for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the chicken with water in a large stock pan.
- Add salt and peppercorns to the water.
- Simmer the chicken on low heat for several hours until cooked.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Cool the broth in the refrigerator and skim off the fat.
- Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms to the defatted broth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the broth while simmering the chicken. If you don't have kosher salt, you can substitute with sea salt, but adjust the quantity as it can be saltier. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the soup's flavor. For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken in place of the whole chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside 'Just Marvelous Chicken' or any other comforting chicken recipes for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the matzo balls are added, they may absorb the broth, so it's best to store them separately. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Matzo Ball Soup contains roughly 528 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 57g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the broth a day ahead. After skimming the fat, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just remember to add the sautéed mushrooms fresh before serving for the best texture.
What can I do if my matzo balls are too dense?
If your matzo balls are dense, try adding a bit more liquid to the mixture or using less matzo meal. Ensure you allow the mixture to rest for about 30 minutes before cooking, as this can help them become lighter and fluffier when boiled.
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. Just add them to the broth during the simmering process, allowing them to cook until tender. This will create a heartier and more colorful soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).