Matzah Meals

Lake Mendota has melted and the sun is starting to shine again in Madison. Spring has arrived, and so have endless boxes of matzah. The Jewish holiday of Passover celebrates the Jewish people’s freedom from slavery in Ancient Egypt. The Jewish people were set free by the Pharaoh and they quickly packed up their things. As they fled from Egypt, they did not have time to properly allow bread to bake. Thus, the hot sun baked the dough on their backs but not enough to rise, creating matzah. Over the eight days of Passover, Jewish people do not eat leavened bread as a reminder of the struggle of their ancestors. 

Here are a few ways to spice up your matzah and create delicious meals over the holiday!

Matzah Brei - Breakfast

In a large mixing bowl, break 4 pieces of matzah into 1-inch pieces. Pour ½ a cup of boiling water over the broken pieces and quickly toss the matzah around. Drain out any excess water. In a separate bowl, beat 4 eggs and mix with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into the large bowl full of matzah. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of kosher vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the matzah and fry until golden, flip, and crisp the other side, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Enjoy with maple syrup or by itself!

Matzah Pizza - Dinner

Spread tomato sauce onto a full piece of matzah. Top with shredded mozzarella, parmesan, or your favorite cheese. Bake at 400 degrees until cheese is melted, 6 to 7 minutes, in an oven or 2 minutes in a microwave. Top with basil or your favorite additions and enjoy!

Matzah Crack - Dessert

Lay out five pieces of lightly salted matzah on a baking sheet. Heat 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of firmly packed brown sugar in a large pan on medium heat, stirring constantly, until boiled. Pour the toffee mixture over the matzah and spread evenly until completely coated. Place the baking sheet in the oven for 10 minutes at 350 degrees until the toffee is bubbly and deep brown. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top, wait for them to soften, and spread an even layer on top. Top with your favorite nuts, sea salt, or other favorite toppings while it is still warm and soft. Allow the candy to cool in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Break the matzah into desired sizes. This treat gets its name for a reason!

Enjoy these tasty matzah meals during your Passover celebration this spring season!