Apple Matzoh Kugel

Apple Matzoh Kugel Recipe from Israel with Horseradish and Walnuts

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apple Matzoh Kugel is a delightful and traditional Jewish dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the unique texture of matzoh. This recipe is perfect for Passover but can be enjoyed year-round. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a dessert, a side dish, or even a main course for a light meal. The combination of apples, honey, and cinnamon creates a comforting and aromatic flavor profile that is sure to please any palate.

History

The tradition of making kugel dates back to the 13th century in Germany. Originally, kugel was a savory dish made with bread and flour. However, with the introduction of potatoes and noodles to the Jewish diet, kugel evolved into both sweet and savory variations. The Apple Matzoh Kugel is a Passover adaptation of this traditional dish, using matzoh instead of leavened ingredients to comply with Passover dietary restrictions. This recipe reflects the ingenuity of Jewish cooks to adapt traditional dishes to meet religious observances while still delivering on flavor and comfort.

Ingredients

4 matzohs
3 beaten eggs
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 cup honey
0.25 cup oil
2 tbsp horseradish
0.5 cup chopped walnuts
2 chopped apples
0.5 cup raisins
1 tsp cinnamon

How to prepare

Break the matzohs into pieces, soak them in water, and drain them.
Combine the eggs, salt, honey, oil, cinnamon, and horseradish, and add them to the matzoh.
Mix in the nuts, apples, and raisins.
Place the mixture in a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake it at 350°F (177°C) for 35 minutes.

Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts and add an extra half cup of raisins or dried cranberries.
Incorporate a layer of thinly sliced pears on top of the kugel before baking for an additional fruity flavor.
Swap the honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Matzoh Kugel turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Soak the matzohs just long enough that they become pliable but not too soggy.

- Squeeze out any excess water from the matzohs to prevent the kugel from becoming too dense.

- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

- For a richer flavor, you can substitute the oil with melted butter, if dietary laws permit.

- Allow the kugel to cool for a few minutes before serving; this makes it easier to cut into neat squares.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Matzoh Kugel can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a savory twist, serve it alongside a roast or grilled chicken.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a crispy top layer while keeping the interior moist and tender. Soaking and draining the matzohs are crucial steps to achieve the right texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten-free matzoh can be used for a gluten-free version.

- Almond oil or coconut oil can substitute for the vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

- Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts based on preference or availability.

Make Ahead Tips

Apple Matzoh Kugel can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kugel on a beautiful platter garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet white wine or a light red wine pairs wonderfully with Apple Matzoh Kugel. For non-alcoholic options, consider apple cider or a spiced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple Matzoh Kugel contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a relatively energy-dense dish, ideal for festive occasions or as a fulfilling snack.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Apple Matzoh Kugel contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the matzohs, apples, and honey. These carbohydrates provide the body with energy, making this dish a good option for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dessert.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving. The fats come from the oil, eggs, and walnuts. These ingredients contribute to the dish's moist texture and rich flavor. The use of healthy fats like those found in walnuts also adds nutritional value by providing essential fatty acids.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple Matzoh Kugel offers around 6 grams of protein. The eggs and nuts are the primary sources of protein in this recipe, contributing to its satiating properties. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a wholesome choice.

Vitamins and minerals

Apple Matzoh Kugel is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E from the nuts, Vitamin C from the apples, and iron and potassium from the raisins. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as nuts (walnuts), eggs, and gluten (matzoh). Individuals with food allergies should take caution or make appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Apple Matzoh Kugel is a nutritious dish that balances carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.

Summary

Apple Matzoh Kugel is a delightful dish that combines traditional Jewish cooking with the sweet flavors of apples and honey. It's versatile, nutritious, and offers a comforting taste of heritage. Whether for Passover or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Apple Matzoh Kugel. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother and grandmother. We were preparing for Passover, a time when we would come together as a family to celebrate our faith and heritage.

My grandmother was a wonderful cook, known for her delicious traditional Jewish dishes. She had a vast collection of recipes that she had acquired over the years, from various places and people. She would often tell me stories about how she learned to make each dish, passing down the knowledge and love for cooking to me.

One day, as we were preparing for Passover, my grandmother pulled out an old, tattered recipe card from her recipe box. It was for Apple Matzoh Kugel, a dish I had never heard of before. She explained that it was a traditional Passover dish, made with matzoh, apples, and a sweet custard-like mixture. I was intrigued and excited to learn how to make it.

My grandmother began to teach me the recipe, taking me through each step with patience and care. We started by soaking the matzoh in water until it softened, then draining it and mixing it with eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and chopped apples. The mixture was then poured into a baking dish and baked until golden and bubbly.

As the kugel baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon filled the kitchen. I couldn't wait to try it. When it was finally done, my grandmother cut a piece for each of us to taste. The kugel was warm and comforting, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. I was hooked.

From that day on, Apple Matzoh Kugel became a staple at our Passover table. I would eagerly help my grandmother make it each year, soaking the matzoh, chopping the apples, and mixing the ingredients together. It became a tradition that I looked forward to, a way to honor my grandmother and the recipes she had passed down to me.

Over the years, I have made Apple Matzoh Kugel for my own family, sharing the recipe and the stories behind it with my children and grandchildren. It has become a beloved dish in our family, a reminder of our heritage and the love we share for each other.

As I look back on that day when I first discovered the recipe for Apple Matzoh Kugel, I am filled with gratitude for my grandmother and the knowledge she passed down to me. I am proud to carry on the tradition of cooking and sharing delicious meals with my family, just as she did for me. And every time I make Apple Matzoh Kugel, I am reminded of the sense of anticipation and joy I felt that day, learning a new recipe and creating a dish that would become a cherished part of our family tradition.