Matzoh Ball Soup, a cherished, age-old comfort dish, has graced tables for countless generations, particularly during festive occasions or brisk evenings. Yet, what truly elevates this savory dish is the thoughtful selection of sides that transform it into a complete, satisfying meal. In this exploration, we’ll uncover “what to serve with matzoh ball soup”, whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or refreshing.
1. Noodles & Bread
Let's begin by indulging in two staples of any warm dish—egg noodles and challah bread.
- Egg Noodles
Crafted from durum wheat flour and enriched with egg yolks, egg noodles are a gentle yet flavorful addition to many meals. Their velvety texture and subtle flavor profile make them an ideal match for an array of dishes. Whether served alongside roasted vegetables, tender meats, or delicate seafood, they have an exceptional ability to absorb the rich broth of matzoh ball soup, making them an effortless yet fulfilling pairing.
- Challah Bread
Challah bread is a golden-hued, slightly sweet Jewish loaf. Its sweetness and spongy texture make it perfect for mopping up the warm, savory broth of matzoh ball soup. Whether served toasted or fresh, challah brings an indulgence to the meal without overshadowing the flavors of the soup itself.
2. Latkes (Potato Pancakes)
Latkes, also known as potato pancakes, are a crowd-pleaser. Made with Idaho potatoes, onions, eggs, and a touch of garlic, salt, and pepper, these pancakes are fried in canola oil until they’re golden and crispy. Serve them with applesauce or sour cream for a comforting and tasty side dish that’s hard to resist.
3. Pierogi – Traditional Ukrainian Dumplings
Pairing matzoh ball soup with pierogi combines two cozy, satisfying dishes. These soft, delicious dumplings make a great side for matzoh ball soup. Here are some pierogi options to try with your next meal.
- Short Rib Pierogi
These pierogi are filled with tender, slow-cooked short ribs that practically melt in your mouth. The rich flavors from the beef, cooked with a touch of port wine, make each bite extra indulgent. Whether boiled or fried until crispy, short rib pierogi bring a hearty and flavorful touch to your meal—perfect when you want something filling.
- Potato Pierogi
You can't go wrong with the classic potato pierogi. Filled with smooth mashed potatoes and onions, they offer a simple, comforting, taste that pairs perfectly with the soothing broth of matzoh ball soup. This tried-and-true favorite has been enjoyed for generations and always adds a cozy touch to any meal.
- Cheese Pierogi
For cheese lovers, these cheese pierogi are a must. Filled with creamy farmer's cheese, they have a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. The soft dough and cheesy filling can go wonderfully with matzoh ball soup, and can create a comforting and irresistible meal.
- Braised Beef Pierogi
For something a little more substantial, braised beef pierogi should be the course. Lush with soft, slow-cooked beef, these filled dumplings carry a mouth-watering flavor. Boiled or crisped in a pan, the hearty beef filling makes the meal much more comforting, flavorful, and full of protein to go with the matzoh ball soup.
4. Stew
When you're enjoying a cozy bowl of matzoh ball soup, adding a hearty stew makes for a truly satisfying meal. These stews bring rich, comforting flavors that go well with the lighter soup.
- Bigos (Hunter’s Stew)
Bigos, known as "hunter's stew," is a Polish classic packed with savory goodness. This stew has everything from juicy roast pork to flavorful kielbasa (Polish sausage) and tangy sauerkraut. Slow-simmered to perfection with onions and spices, it’s a hearty, flavorful dish that adds a deliciously rich contrast to your matzoh ball soup.
- Beef Stroganoff
Inspired by the famous Count Alexander Grigorievich Stroganoff from 19th-century Ukraine, our beef stroganoff is all about tender slices of beef simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce. The combination of peppered steak smothered with the indulgent sauce is Ideal for those in search of something heartier to go with their matzoh ball soup.
- Veal Goulash
Goulash is one of those dishes that Central Europe loves, and our version, made with tender veal, gives it something extra. Braised veal in a creamy, herb-laden sauce full of comforting spices is what does the trick. Looking for something to spice up your meal? Veal goulash is a good choice to go along with the lightness of the matzoh ball soup.
- Chicken Paprikash
But Chicken Paprikash is one of the most irresistible Hungarian dishes. Tender pieces of boneless chicken are braised in a creamy paprika sauce that’s full of red peppers and herbs. It is a wonderful way to add a strong, savory side to your meal.
5. Stuffed Cabbage
Holubtsi, or more correctly, stuffed cabbage, brings tradition to the table: tender leaves of cabbage wrapped around a savory filling of pork, onion, white rice, and seasonings like salt and black pepper, braised in chicken stock and unsalted butter. For a vegetarian version, these can be filled with rice, mushrooms, and onions, all cooked in avegetable stock rich in umami flavor. To top off this side you can layer on a rich mushroom gravy or a tangy tomato sauce.
6. Fresh Salad
If you prefer something lighter, fresh salads offer a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup. Whether you're in the mood forlight and leafy, these salads bring balance to your meal.
- Beet & Horseradish Salad
This salad brings together the sweetness of beets with the spicy kick of horseradish. It’s the perfect palate cleanser that pairs well with any dish. Enjoy it chilled for the best flavor and a refreshing contrast to your matzoh ball soup.
- Mixed Green Salad
For a fresh and light option, our mixed green salad is packed with leafy greens, cabbage, and carrots, providing a simple, fresh side. Its crunch and lightness work well with the deeper, savory notes of the soup.
- East Village Spinach Salad
This spinach salad is full of hearty ingredients like mushrooms, hard-cooked eggs, crispy bacon, and feta cheese. It’s a filling and flavorful option that adds a nice balance to your meal. The mix of fresh spinach and rich toppings makes this salad an ideal companion for matzoh ball soup.
Discover Delicious Pairings for Matzoh Ball Soup at Veselka
Veselka’s famous matzoh ball soup deserves the perfect side to complete your meal. From rich stews to fresh salads, we blend tradition and comfort for a satisfying dining experience.
The dish shines even brighter when you know “what to serve with matzoh ball soup”. Whether you prefer a light salad or a hearty pierogi or stew, there’s something for everyone. Visit Veselka today and enjoy an unforgettable meal with these delicious pairings.
