Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken
• 2 quarts cold water, or as needed
• 8 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 parsnip, chopped (Optional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 bunch fresh dill weed, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 cups matzo meal
• 6 large eggs
• 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients.

Step 2: Place the chicken, breast-side down, into a large pot. Fill the pot with enough cold water to reach about 3 inches from the top. Add the carrots, celery, parsnip (if using), onion, dill, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, ensuring the soup doesn't boil. Partially cover the pot and cook for 2 hours, skimming any fat that rises to the top during cooking.

Step 3: After 2 hours, add the crushed garlic, partially cover again, and continue to simmer for another 2 hours.

Step 4: While the soup is simmering, combine the matzo meal, eggs, vegetable oil, 2 teaspoons of salt, and cup of broth from the soup in a medium bowl. Stir the mixture well, then refrigerate for about 20 minutes, allowing it to set.

Step 5: In a separate pot, bring water to a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to boil, wet your hands to prevent the matzo mixture from sticking to them. Roll the matzo mixture into about 16 balls.

Step 6: Once the water is boiling, carefully drop the matzo balls into the pot. Cover the pot and cook the matzo balls for about 35 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked through.

Step 7: Meanwhile, remove the chicken from the soup. Discard the skin and bones, and shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Strain the broth to remove any solids, reserving the vegetables for another use or discarding them.

Step 8: Return the strained broth to the pot. Add the shredded chicken back into the broth, along with the cooked matzo balls from the boiling water. Stir well to combine.

Step 9: Serve the soup hot, and enjoy your comforting bowl of matzo ball soup!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not be available for all ingredients. If following a medically restricted diet, consult a doctor or dietitian.