Matzo Ball Soup Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Guide

There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of matzo ball soup—especially when it’s homemade, comforting, and entirely vegetarian. Whether you’re celebrating Passover, looking for a cozy pick-me-up, or simply craving a bowl of nostalgia, this vegetarian matzo ball soup recipe fits the bill.

With perfectly fluffy matzo balls bobbing in a savory vegetable broth, each spoonful brings warmth and a gentle hug for your taste buds.

Traditionally, matzo ball soup is made with chicken broth, but you won’t miss it here. This plant-based version gets its depth of flavor from aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a few clever tricks to create that signature rich, golden broth.

The matzo balls themselves are light, tender, and infused with just the right amount of seasoning. Serve this classic soup as a starter, main course, or anytime you need a comforting meal.

Ready to make the best vegetarian matzo ball soup you’ve ever tasted? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the comfort of the classic—without any meat! This vegetarian matzo ball soup is just as cozy and satisfying as the version you grew up with.
• Fluffy, flavorful matzo balls that hold together beautifully in a rich, aromatic broth.
• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and herbs for a soup that’s all your own.
• Perfect for Passover or any time you want a healing, nourishing meal.
• Make-ahead friendly—prepare the matzo balls and broth in advance for effortless meals all week.
• Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and delightfully simple—what more could you ask for?

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl (for matzo ball dough)
• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan (for simmering matzo balls)
• Slotted spoon
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Optional: fine mesh strainer (if you want a super-clear broth)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Matzo Ball Mixture:

   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and oil until well combined. Stir in the matzo meal, water or broth, salt, pepper, baking powder (if using), and parsley.

   Mix until just combined; the mixture will be thick and sticky.

   Tip: Don’t over-mix! Overworking the dough can make the matzo balls dense.

   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the mixture to hydrate and set.

2. Make the Broth:

   While the matzo ball mixture chills, heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until translucent.

   Stir in carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

   Add vegetable broth, bay leaf, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the broth is fragrant.

   For extra depth, add parsnip and turnip with the carrots and celery.

3. Shape and Cook the Matzo Balls:

   Bring a medium saucepan of well-salted water to a gentle boil. With wet hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of matzo ball mixture and gently roll into balls (about the size of a walnut).

   You should get 12-14 matzo balls.

   Carefully drop the balls into the boiling water. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover.

   Cook for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the matzo balls are puffed and cooked through.

   Don’t lift the lid too often—steam is key for fluffy matzo balls!

4. Combine and Finish the Soup:

   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked matzo balls to the soup pot with the simmering broth and vegetables. Add fresh dill and simmer everything together for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Serve:

   Ladle hot soup and vegetables into bowls, adding 2-3 matzo balls per serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill and cracked black pepper.

   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Make it vegan: Substitute a flaxseed “egg” (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) or use a commercial egg replacer for the matzo balls. Some readers love using silken tofu for extra moisture!
• Add extra veggies: Try adding diced sweet potato, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a heartier soup.
• Herb variations: Swap in fresh thyme, chives, or tarragon for a twist on tradition.
• Broth boost: Add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of miso paste for extra umami.
• Matzo ball texture: For denser matzo balls, skip the baking powder. For ultra-light ones, use seltzer water instead of still water in the dough.
• Make ahead: Both the matzo balls and broth can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store separately and combine when reheating.
• Freeze for later: Matzo balls freeze beautifully! Arrange on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Reheat directly in simmering broth when ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• As a main course: Serve generous bowls of soup with rustic bread or crackers. For a delicious homemade option, try this Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
• For a holiday meal: Pair with a fresh salad and a light dessert such as Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
• Cozy night in: Enjoy this soup alongside a platter of roasted vegetables or a creamy dip—like this crowd-pleasing Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite.
• Leftover idea: Chop leftover matzo balls and sauté with veggies for a quick hash.
• Make it a meal: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to the broth for a protein boost.

Conclusion

Matzo ball soup is more than just a dish—it’s a vessel for memories, tradition, and comfort. This vegetarian version proves that you don’t need meat to achieve deep flavor, heartiness, and that signature matzo ball magic.

From its golden broth to its pillowy dumplings, every element is crafted to nourish body and soul.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, treating yourself to a comforting meal, or sharing with friends and family, this vegetarian matzo ball soup recipe is sure to impress. It’s simple enough for weeknights, yet special enough for gatherings.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to explore other plant-based favorites like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or warm up with a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

Happy cooking and enjoy your bowl of vegetarian comfort!

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