Vegetarian Matzo Ball Soup

Now that school is starting up quick evening meals are essential to save time and sanity.  I have two daughters, one a vegetarian, so at home we eat mostly vegetarian meals. Making meals that appeal omnivores and vegetarians can be challenging but this is a sure hit every time.

I make this once every other week or so. Matzo ball mix usually come in 2 packs per box in the "ethnic" aisle.  I buy when it's on sale (check post-passover and stock up!).  This dish is quick, easy, easy to modify and the kids love it.  Total comfort food.  I don't serve this with crusty bread or grilled cheese since there's already starch in the pot.  Add some fresh fruit on the side and it's a meal!

 VEGETARIAN MATZO BALL SOUP

(serves ~ 4 people with seconds or thirds or leftovers, 6 people with no leftovers)

Ingredients:

• 1 packet (not the whole box) matzo ball mix plus whatever ingredients that particular brand requires to make it (1-2 eggs, vegetable oil, etc)
• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped/minced 
• 3-4 stalks celery, chopped
• 3-4 carrots, chopped
• 1.5-2 quarts water with bouillon or vegetable stock/broth
• 1/2 bag of baby spinach
• pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional, I just think it looks pretty)
• red pepper flakes (optional and individually on serving)

Directions:

1. Make matzo ball packet mix according to brand instructions and let it sit while you get the soup ready.
2. Warm olive oil in pot then add onions, carrots and celery and saute for 5 minutes.  Add garlic and saute 1 minute more.
3. Pour water or broth onto softened veggies (note:  I use Better than Bouillon Brand NO Chicken Vegetarian Soup Base for all "chicken" like soups.  I actually prefer it over REAL chicken bouillon).
4. Add optional dried parsley and pepper to taste.
5. Once soup is at a soft boil add matzo ball dough and cook according to package instructions (usually at a lower heat, covered for 20-30min)
6. After matzo balls are cooked add a half a bag of spinach and just let it wilt in the soup. You can also not add the spinach if you have kids that don't like it but life is like a pizza, just pick out what you don't want.
7. I top my individual bowls with red pepper flakes because I like it spicy.