As Passover approaches, many of us are busy preparing our homes, cleaning out our kitchens, and planning our menus. And at the heart of many Jewish households during this holiday season is the humble piece of matzah – a staple in traditional Passover cuisine. While some may view matzah as simply a necessary component of the seder plate or a base for charoset, we think it’s time to give this versatile flatbread its due.
From savory soups and stews to sweet treats and snacks, matzah can be used in countless ways to add texture, flavor, and excitement to your Passover celebration. In fact, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible diversity of matzah-based dishes out there. From classic Matzah Ball Soup to innovative creations like Matzah Pizza with Fresh Basil and Chocolate-Covered Matzah with Sea Salt, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your Passover cooking.
Matzah Ball Soup
Warm up with a classic Jewish comfort food – Matzah Ball Soup! This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly winter day or a special celebration.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 matzah balls (see below for recipe)
Matzah Ball Recipe:
– 2 cups matzah meal
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Pour in chicken broth, parsley, and dill weed. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer.
3. When ready to serve, add matzah balls to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Matzah Brei with Cinnamon and Apples
This recipe adds a delicious spin to traditional Matzah Brei by incorporating sweet apples and warm cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 matzah crackers
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– Optional: raisins or nuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, crush matzah crackers into small pieces.
3. Add diced apple, sugar, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Add butter to the mixture and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Matzah Pizza with Fresh Basil
Combine the simplicity of matzah crackers with the flavors of Italy to create a unique and tasty snack. This Matzah Pizza with Fresh Basil recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of matzah crackers
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a small amount of pizza sauce on each matzah cracker.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Top with chopped fresh basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chocolate-Covered Matzah with Sea Salt
Transform traditional matzah into a decadent dessert with this simple recipe. Crunchy, salty, and richly chocolatey, these treats are perfect for Passover or any time you crave a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 box of matzah
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
– Optional: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place matzah pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Drizzle melted chocolate over matzah pieces, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Sprinkle sea salt and optional toppings evenly over the chocolate-covered matzah.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Matzah Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, this Matzah lasagna combines the flavors of spinach and ricotta cheese with a crispy matzah crust. Perfect for Passover or anytime you want to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 Matzah sheets
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Matzah sheets according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Create layers of cooked Matzah sheets, spinach-ricotta mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese (starting and ending with the Matzah).
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Matzah Toffee Crunch
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy-to-make Matzah Toffee Crunch recipe. This crunchy treat is perfect for snacking or as a topping for your favorite ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzah meal
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toffee bits or crushed almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together matzah meal, corn syrup, sugar, water, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Press the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet into a thin layer.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Break into pieces and top with toffee bits or crushed almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Matzah Nachos with Cheese and Jalapeños
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this creative take on nachos, substituting traditional tortilla chips with crispy matzah. Perfect for Passover or any time you want to add some excitement to your snack routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzah, broken into small pieces
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup half-and-half (or milk)
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine matzah pieces, shredded cheese, and half-and-half. Mix until the matzah is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Remove from oven and top with sliced jalapeños. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matzah Kugel with Raisins and Nuts
This classic Jewish dish is a staple of Passover celebrations, but its warm and comforting flavors make it perfect for any time of year. With the added sweetness from raisins and crunch from nuts, this kugel is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 box matzah (about 16-20 sheets)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and milk.
3. Add the melted butter, raisins, and nuts; stir until combined.
4. Crush the matzah into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer half of the matzah crumbs on the bottom of the dish.
7. Pour in the egg mixture, followed by the remaining matzah crumbs.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Matzah Granola with Honey and Almonds
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and crunchy Matzah granola, perfect for a quick energy boost. Made with toasted Matzah, honey, and almonds, this recipe is a delicious twist on traditional granola.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Matzah
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the Matzah and olive oil until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in the honey until well combined.
6. Add the sliced almonds and toss to distribute evenly.
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Matzah Stuffing with Herbs and Mushrooms
This recipe combines the simplicity of matzah with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and fresh herbs, creating a deliciously unique stuffing perfect for your next holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzah meal
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine the matzah meal and mushroom mixture. Mix well.
6. Stuff into a greased baking dish or use as a topping for roasted meats.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Matzah Baklava with Pistachios
This traditional Jewish dessert gets a creative twist by substituting traditional phyllo dough with matzah, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Perfect for Passover celebrations or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzah, broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine matzah, sugar, honey, and cinnamon; mix until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped pistachios and orange zest.
4. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matzah Tiramisu with Coffee and Mascarpone
Combine the richness of mascarpone cheese with the bold flavor of coffee, all wrapped up in crispy matzah for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzah
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the matzah and coffee. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the matzah to absorb the coffee.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add sugar, butter, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Dip each piece of matzah into the mascarpone mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated matzah on a serving plate or individual plates. Repeat the process with remaining matzah and mascarpone.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Matzah Tacos with Spiced Beef
In this creative twist on traditional tacos, crispy matzah crackers replace tortillas and are filled with tender spiced beef, creamy avocado, and tangy slaw. This recipe is perfect for Passover or any time you want to add some Middle Eastern flair to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 matzah crackers
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup coleslaw mix
– Optional toppings: cilantro, pickled red onions, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors are combined and the mixture is slightly caramelized.
4. Crisp matzah crackers in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the spiced beef onto a matzah cracker, topping with avocado, coleslaw mix, and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Matzah French Toast with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a twist on classic French toast, using matzah instead of traditional bread for a unique and delicious breakfast treat. This recipe combines the crispy, nutty flavor of matzah with the sweetness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sheets of matzah
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (warm or room temperature)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Dip each sheet of matzah into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the matzah for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Serve warm French toast with melted butter and drizzle with maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Matzah S’mores with Chocolate and Marshmallows
A twist on the classic campfire treat, these Matzah S’mores bring a new level of delight to the traditional combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Matzah
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 bag large marshmallows
– Fire or toaster oven for toasting marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat a fire or toaster oven to toast the marshmallows.
2. Break the Matzah into small squares.
3. Place a piece of Matzah on a flat surface.
4. Place one or two marshmallows on top of the Matzah, depending on size and desired gooiness.
5. Place a few milk chocolate chips on top of the marshmallows.
6. Use a toasting fork or skewer to toast the marshmallows over the fire or in the toaster oven until golden brown.
7. Sandwich the toasted marshmallow(s) between two Matzah squares, with the chocolate in the middle.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side for toasting marshmallows.
Matzah Spanakopita with Feta
For Passover, we’re giving the traditional spinach and feta spanakopita recipe a matzah twist. This savory pie is perfect for your Seder table or as a delicious addition to any Passover celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat matzah
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, feta, onion, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the matzah with olive oil.
4. Layer matzah sheets in a pie dish, overlapping slightly.
5. Fill matzah layers with spinach mixture, ending with a layer of matzah on top.
6. Beat egg in a small bowl and brush over the top layer of matzah.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Matzah Apple Crisp with Cinnamon
This Matzah Apple Crisp is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert perfect for Passover celebrations. The combination of tender apples, crunchy matzah, and warm cinnamon will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of matzah
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
4. Arrange the apple mixture in the prepared baking dish.
5. Break matzah into small pieces and sprinkle evenly over the apple mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and top is golden brown.
7. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Matzah Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Garlic
Matzah Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Garlic: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Recipe
Perfect for a light and flavorful snack or appetizer, this matzah bruschetta combines the simplicity of toasted matzah with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of whole wheat matzah
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the matzah slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the toasted matzah with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato-garlic mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Passover with these 18 delicious matzah recipes! From classic comfort foods like Matzah Ball Soup and Matzah Brei with Cinnamon and Apples, to creative twists like Matzah Pizza with Fresh Basil and Matzah Nachos with Cheese and Jalapeños, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to sweet treats like Chocolate-Covered Matzah with Sea Salt or indulge in savory dishes like Matzah Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Passover treat or a modern twist on an old favorite, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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