Get ready to unlock the secrets of an authentic Jewish comfort food that has warmed hearts and satisfied hunger for generations! Knaidlach, or matzoh meal dumplings, are not just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that bridges tradition and taste, offering a delightful texture and rich cultural heritage in every single bite. Whether you're looking to impress your family with a classic recipe or explore the depths of Jewish cuisine, these heavenly dumplings are about to become your new kitchen obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 12 dumplings
Ingredients
- 1 cup matzoh meal
- 4 eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the matzoh meal and salt, creating a dry base for the dumplings.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, and vegetable oil until well blended and slightly frothy.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the matzoh meal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the matzoh meal to absorb the liquid.
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a gentle boil. The water should be at a simmer, not a rolling boil.
- Wet your hands with cold water to prevent the mixture from sticking, then gently form the dough into small, golf ball-sized dumplings.
- Carefully drop each dumpling into the simmering water, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook the knaidlach for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface and appear puffy.
- Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain excess water.
- Serve hot as a side dish, typically alongside chicken soup or as part of a traditional Jewish meal.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to prevent the dumplings from falling apart.
- Wet Hands Technique: Always keep your hands slightly wet when forming dumplings to prevent the mixture from sticking and to create smooth, uniform shapes.
- Resting Time is Crucial: Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes before forming dumplings, allowing the matzoh meal to fully absorb the liquid and create a better texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: When cooking, make sure dumplings have enough space in the pot to expand and cook evenly.
- Test One First: Try cooking a single dumpling first to ensure your mixture holds together and has the right consistency before making the entire batch.Pro tip: These versatile dumplings are perfect not just in chicken soup, but can also be served as a delightful side dish with various main courses!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 97kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
