MARCH/APRIL

“Matzo Brei”

Passover is usually celebrated in the Spring, depending upon the Jewish calendar this can be in March or April. Some consumers were looking for a dessert recipe they could use while celebrating Passover. Passover is a special holiday for people of the Jewish Religion. During Passover they cannot have any yeast in the bread. Most people use flat bread such as matzo. This dessert using the matzo was appropriate for the holiday. As always, it is better to cook with a family member or friend. Cooking with someone is always more fun and it is safer. Always make kitchen safety your first priority. If you are uncomfortable using the stove, ask the other person to complete that part of the recipe.

Before starting the lesson plan read the entire plan. This will enable you to have all the materials ready and give you an idea of the steps needed to complete the recipe.

DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Make a list of the ingredients you need to purchase from the supermarket. You can make a special trip if you like or add it to your regular shopping order. Most of the ingredients you should already have in your home.

Step 2: Before handling the food items, always wash your hands. If you are preparing food for a large group you should use food preparer’s gloves. Assemble all the items you need before beginning.

Step 3: Using one of the mixing bowls as a container break the matzos into small pieces over the bowl. Fill the pitcher with cold tap water. Cover the matzos with water and let them soak for three minutes. After 3 minutes, pour the water out into the sink. Squeeze the matzo to get the excess water out of the matzo, discard the water from the matzo. In the second bowl break open 2 eggs then measure and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the eggs. Beat the eggs and salt with the metal whisk until the yellow and white have come together. Add the matzo to the egg mixture; stir the mixture and matzo together.

Step 4: Place the small skillet or frying pan on the stove and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Turn on the flame under the skillet to medium heat. If the flame is coming over the bottom turn the flame down. The flame should only cover a small area in the middle of the skillet.

Step 5: Using the tablespoon, place one measured scoop of the matzo mixture into the skillet. Fry on one side for 1 minute, using the spatula turn the matzo over and fry on the other side for 1 minute. Take the matzo out of the skillet and place on paper towel.

Step 6: Repeat step 5 until all the matzos are fried. Turn off the flame, let the pan cool off before washing. This way you will not burn yourself on the oil. This recipe will serve 4 people. Take out 4 dessert plates. Divide the matzo evenly on the 4 plates. Top with a large spoonful of yogurt and drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the top.

Enjoy your Matzo Brei! This recipe can be just one dish on your menu if you are hosting a multi-cultural celebration in the Spring. Go to the library or get some cooking magazines to get some ideas on how you can plan a varied menu and invite friends and family members to help you celebrate everyone’s culture while enjoying a wide variety of ethnic dishes.