Knaidlach, also known as matzo balls, are a traditional Jewish dish that are cooked in soup or stew. They are made from a mixture of matzo meal, eggs, and water, and can be flavored with various herbs and spices. Knaidlach are a popular comfort food, and there are many different recipes for them. Some recipes call for adding vegetables or meat to the mixture, while others keep it simple with just matzo meal, eggs, and water. Knaidlach can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, frying, and baking. They can also be served as a side dish or as a main course.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
KNAIDLACH
Provided by Mimi Sheraton
Yield Makes 10 to 12 large matzoh balls
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Beat the eggs lightly with cold water. Add the chicken fat and stir until the fat dissolves. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper.
- Gradually beat in the matzoh meal, 2 tablespoons at a time, proceeding slowly as it thickens so you do not add too much. The mixture should be as thick as light mashed potatoes, and just a little soft and spongy. Add salt and pepper as needed. Chill for 5 to 7 hours.
- Half an hour before serving time, bring 2 1/2 to 3 quarts of water to a boil. Add a handful of salt, as for pasta.
- With wet hands, or two tablespoons dipped intermittently in cold water, shape the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Drop gently into the boiling water, cover pot loosely, and let boil at a moderately brisk pace for about 25 minutes.
- When one ball tests done (cut it open and see if it is light and cooked all the way through), remove all carefully with a slotted spoon. Serve in hot chicken soup.
- Variation:
- To make fried matzoh balls, chill the cooked balls overnight. In the morning, cut into slices between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick and fry slowly in hot butter or margarine, turning so both sides become golden brown and the slices are thoroughly heated.
KNAIDLACH (MATZO BALLS)
These go with Chicken Soup I posted. Don't forgo the refigerated resting period that is in the recipe or you will get what my Father lovingly decribed my Mother's Knaidlach as "Bull-killer's"! They were so heavy!
Provided by Esther Hardman
Categories Other Breads
Time 55m
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- 1. Crack eggs into a large bowl and beat with a fork to mix thoroughly. Beat in the schmaltz, salt, pepper and baking powder. Stir in matzo meal, then mix vigorously with a wooden spoon until completely blended and very stiff. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- 2. Fill a large pot 3/4 full of water and add 1 tablespoon salt, bring to a boil. Wet hands with cold water so the batter doesn't stick, shape a bit of mixture into balls the size of ping-pong ball. They will double in size when cooked. Gently place in boiling water, decrease heat so that water simmers briskly and cover pot. Cook for 25 minutes, don't remove lid. Remove balls from water and serve with the chicken soup.
NEVER-FAIL KNAIDLACH - MATZO BALLS
I make them small and they cook up light and fluffy
Provided by Harlene LeVine
Categories Chicken Soups
Time 25m
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- 1. Beat eggs with salt and pepper. Add oil and water. Stir in matzo meal and parsley. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- 2. In a large pot, bring 4-5 quarts of salted water to boil. With wet or oily hands, form walnut-size balls and drop into boiling water. Cook for 25 minutes uncovered or partially covered.
- 3. Remove with a slotted spoon.
MATZOH BALLS/ KNAIDLACH
Steps:
- beat eggs and salt. Stir in Matzoh meal, water, melted butter. Chill foro 1 hour Cook in boiling soup or salted water, then put into soup. They always take a little longer to cook thru than you'd expect. (~30 min)
Tips:
- Choose the right matzo meal: Fine matzo meal will result in a softer knaidlach, while coarse matzo meal will give you a chewier texture.
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will help the knaidlach bind together and prevent them from falling apart.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter will make the knaidlach tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes will help the matzo meal absorb the liquid and make the knaidlach more flavorful.
- Form the knaidlach gently: Be gentle when forming the knaidlach, as overhandling can make them tough.
- Cook the knaidlach in simmering water: Boiling water will cause the knaidlach to break apart. Simmering water is the best way to cook them evenly and gently.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Overcrowding the pot will prevent the knaidlach from cooking evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Serve the knaidlach immediately: Knaidlach are best served immediately after they are cooked. They can be reheated, but they will not be as good as when they are fresh.
Conclusion:
Knaidlach are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you serve them in soup, gravy, or as a side dish, they are sure to be a hit. With a few simple tips, you can make perfect knaidlach every time. So next time you're looking for a hearty and flavorful dish, give knaidlach a try.
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