As the sun sets on the Seder table, the sweet aroma of traditional Passover dishes fills the air. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, celebrating Passover with delicious and authentic recipes is a must. With its rich history and cultural significance, the holiday requires a little extra effort in the kitchen, but the payoff is well worth it. From classic matzo ball soup to sweet treats like chocolate torte, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering Passover recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of the most beloved and iconic Passover dishes from around the world. From savory main courses to indulgent desserts, our recipes use only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques to bring the flavors of Passover to life in your own kitchen.
Matzo Ball Soup
This comforting Jewish soup is a staple of Passover and beyond. With its tender matzo balls and flavorful chicken broth, it’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Water, as needed
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, broth, and dill weed. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour and eggs. Gradually add water as needed to form a smooth dough.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the matzo ball mixture by tablespoonfuls into the boiling water. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the matzo balls float.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Charoset with Apples and Walnuts
This sweet and tangy charoset is a twist on the traditional Passover dish, featuring tender apples and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apples, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until apples are tender.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Brisket with Garlic and Herbs
This recipe brings out the tender and juicy side of brisket by roasting it to perfection with a flavorful combination of garlic, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the brisket in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Roast the brisket for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Gefilte Fish with Horseradish
Gefilte fish is a traditional Jewish dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This classic recipe combines flavorful fish patties with a tangy horseradish sauce, creating a delicious and memorable experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish (such as cod or haddock), finely chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon matzo meal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup prepared horseradish sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine fish, onion, garlic, egg, matzo meal, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer patties to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with horseradish sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Passover Potato Kugel
Celebrate Passover with a delicious potato kugel that’s sure to become a family favorite! This traditional dish is a perfect side or dessert option for your Seder table.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and milk to the potato mixture; mix until well combined.
4. Pour the kugel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the kugel is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Chicken with Artichokes and Olives
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. Tender chicken, artichoke hearts, and briny olives come together in a rich and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the artichoke hearts, olives, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Matzo Brei with Cinnamon and Honey
A sweet twist on the classic Jewish dish, this Cinnamon and Honey Matzo Brei is a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups matzo meal
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine matzo meal, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a pancake shape.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the matzo brei for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with melted butter and drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Passover Chocolate Torte
Celebrate Passover with this indulgent chocolate torte, made with kosher-for-Passover ingredients. This rich and fudgy dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups ground almonds
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (kosher for Passover)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ground almonds, sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, canola oil, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour the melted chocolate into the batter and mix until smooth.
7. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Elevate your meal with this flavorful medley of roasted vegetables, perfect as a side dish or main course. This recipe is a great way to use up any combination of your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the vegetables, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan-Style Lamb Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of Morocco with tender lamb, a blend of spices, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to pot, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Passover Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are a perfect fit for Passover celebrations, using ground almonds and eggs as the base. With a hint of vanilla and lemon zest, these cookies are sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups ground almonds
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ground almonds and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and lemon zest to the egg mixture; whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the almond mixture to the egg mixture; gently fold until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until macaroons are lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Matzo Lasagna with Spinach and Cheese
Matzo Lasagna with Spinach and Cheese: A Creative Twist on a Classic Jewish Dish
This recipe combines the traditional Passover staple, matzo, with creamy spinach and melted cheese for a unique and delicious twist on lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sheets of matzo
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook matzo sheets according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading spinach mixture on top of a cooked matzo sheet, followed by a layer of cheese.
6. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken gets a flavorful boost from a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. This herbed roasted chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Passover Popovers
Passover Popovers: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
These light and airy popovers are perfect for Passover celebrations. Made with matzo meal, eggs, and cream, they’re a delightful alternative to traditional bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matzo meal
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together matzo meal, eggs, and salt until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and whisk until well combined.
4. Pour batter into greased muffin tin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until popovers are puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the popovers to collapse.
– Serve warm with your favorite Passover toppings, such as jam or whipped cream.
Sweet Potato Tzimmes
Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish dish that’s sweet, savory, and utterly comforting. This sweet potato tzimmes recipe puts a twist on the classic by incorporating sweet potatoes for added natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 apple, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, onion, and apple.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Passover Granola
This crunchy granola recipe is perfect for a Passover dessert or snack, using traditional ingredients like oats and nuts to create a flavorful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spread granola on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with savory ground meat and rice filling. This classic recipe is a staple of many cuisines, perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center.
6. Fold the sides over the filling and roll the leaf into a neat package. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Passover Almond Cake
Celebrate Passover with this moist and flavorful almond cake, perfect for a holiday dessert or special occasion. Made with ground almonds, eggs, and sugar, this cake is both traditional and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) ground almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually pour egg mixture over almond mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some delicious and traditional Passover recipes! This collection features 18 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic matzo ball soup and charoset with apples and walnuts, to roasted brisket with garlic and herbs and braised chicken with artichokes and olives, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making passover potato kugel, matzo brei with cinnamon and honey, or Moroccan-style lamb stew. And don’t forget the sweet treats like passover chocolate torte and almond cake. These recipes are sure to make your Passover celebration one to remember!
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