Matzo Brei: the best recipe for a classic Passover dish

Matzo brei is a mouthwatering Jewish breakfast recipe that many households enjoy around Passover. It's an Ashkenazi Jewish dish made from softened matzo sheets that are broken into pieces and fried in butter or schmaltz, with eggs. In fact, the name matzo brei (which rhymes with “fry”) means fried matzo.

It's the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You need a handful of ingredients to make the perfect matzo brei. Gather some eggs, milk, butter, and of course, matzo, and you're ready to get cooking! You can add extra toppings to make your matzo brei even tastier and more special.

What is Matzo Brei?

Matzo brei (pronounced “brigh”) means “fried matzo” in Yiddish. It's a delicious, popular Ashkenazi Jewish breakfast or brunch recipe, that's a staple during Passover, although many people enjoy it all year round.

It's made by frying pieces of matzo in butter then adding some beaten eggs and sauteing until cooked through. It can be made either sweet or savory, depending on your preferences.

How to Make Matzo Brei

Making matzo brei at home is super easy. First, whisk your eggs and milk until airy. Soften your matzo sheet by running it under your kitchen faucet until it begins to soften. You don't want it too soft, otherwise, it will disintegrate. About 20 to 50 seconds should do. Shake off excess water, and set it aside.

Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Break the matzo into small pieces then put them in the pan. Cook the matzo for 1 minute until well-coated with the butter Add the egg mixture to the pan. Stir until combined with the matzo. Cook your matzo brei for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring regularly. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Sweet or Savory Matzo Brei?

It's up to you whether you make sweet or savory matzo brei – both ways are delicious! If you want a sweet matzo brei, add the sugar while stirring the eggs and matzo.

To take your savory matzo brei to the next level, cook it in schmaltz (rendered chicken fat). It will give it loads of flavor!

Tips for Making the Best Matzo Brei

The best type of matzo for matzo brei is the sheets of matzo you can buy from your supermarket.

You want the sheet of matzo to soften but not become mushy. Don't let the water run over it for too long!

After adding the eggs, make sure to keep stirring so that the eggs don't overcook.

Serve your matzo brei with a side of applesauce, sour cream, chopped apples, fresh berries, toasted nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon. For a heartier, savory version, try adding some shredded cheese or chopped veggies.

You can use water or plant-based milk instead of regular milk to make your matzo brei if you need a dairy-free option.

How to Store Matzo Brei

Matzo brei is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or so.

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until airy.

Soften a sheet of matzo under the tap for 20 to 50 seconds.

Shake off excess water, and set it aside.

Melt the butter in a pan.

Break apart the matzo into small pieces. Put them in the pan.

Cook for 1 minute, until well-coated with the butter.

Add the egg to the pan. Stir until combined with the matzo.

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring regularly. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.