Vegan Matzo Ball Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup is traditionally made with chicken broth and matzo balls made with eggs, but this vegan version is just as flavorful and satisfying.
What Makes This Vegan Matzo Ball Soup So Special?
This recipe is my go-to for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when I’m feeling under the weather. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Flavorful broth: The base of any good matzo ball soup is a rich and flavorful broth. This recipe uses a combination of vegetable broth, aromatic vegetables, and herbs to create a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Light and fluffy matzo balls: The matzo balls are the star of the show, and these vegan ones don’t disappoint! They’re light, fluffy, and soak up all that delicious broth.
- Easy to make: Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making matzo balls from scratch! This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow.
Let’s Gather Our Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious vegan matzo ball soup:
For the broth:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the matzo balls:
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegan matzo ball soup ingredients laid out on a table
Time to Make the Soup!
- Prepare the broth: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are very tender.
Vegan matzo ball soup simmering in a pot
Now, Let’s Create those Fluffy Matzo Balls
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the matzo meal, chopped onion, dill, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed meal with water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Combine wet ingredients: Add the flax egg and vegetable broth to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add an additional tablespoon of vegetable broth at a time.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the matzo balls hold their shape.
Vegan matzo ball dough chilling in a bowl
Cooking the Matzo Balls
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Shape the matzo balls: With wet hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
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Add to the soup: Gently drop the matzo balls into the simmering soup.
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Cook the matzo balls: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the matzo balls are cooked through and fluffy.
“Resist the urge to lift the lid while the matzo balls are cooking!” – Chef Amelia Green, renowned vegan chef and author of “The Plant-Based Kitchen”
Vegan matzo balls cooking in simmering soup
Ready to Serve?
Ladle the soup into bowls and add 2-3 matzo balls to each bowl. Garnish with fresh dill and enjoy!
FAQs About Vegan Matzo Ball Soup
Can I make the matzo balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the matzo balls up to a day in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to freeze the soup and matzo balls separately. This will help to prevent the matzo balls from becoming soggy.
What can I serve with vegan matzo ball soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Get creative! Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped zucchini, parsnips, or even a handful of spinach.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free matzo meal.
