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    Home » Recipes » Jewish Recipes

    Published: Apr 10, 2015 · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah)

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    This matzo brei recipe is one I make every Passover! Savory scrambled eggs with soaked and fried matzah, matzo brei is truly one of life's most perfect foods: eggy, pillowy and full of delicious matzos, it's the best brunch with which to celebrate Passover.

    close up on small matzo brei serving with sour cream and parsley

    What is Passover Matzo Brei? 

    Ruth Reichl once lovingly referred to Matzo Brei as "one of life's perfect foods" (Letters from the Editor, Gourmet, April 2014). Though I would usually hesitate to refer to anything containing matzo as perfect, I believe matzo brei is the exception to the rule. 

    Matzo Brei (also known as "fried matzah") is a dish of Ashkenazi Jewish origin that is typically prepared during Passover, a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. The dish is made with matzo, a cracker-like unleavened bread that symbolizes the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. This bread is soaked in water until it becomes soft, then it is mixed with eggs and seasonings, and fried in butter or oil until it is crispy and golden brown. 

    There is just something special about the act of submerging that crispy, crackly, dry cracker in a bath full of eggs and (non-dairy) milk, swirling it around until all of its defences are broken, its body swells with liquid, and its heretofore tough, prickly exterior becomes soft and pillowy like the best cheese. It's the best kind of kitchen alchemy.

    Each year, making matzo brei is my favourite part of Passover - and the best way to use up any leftover matzos.

    overhead matzo brei with sour cream and parsley and small plate serving

    When do you serve Matzo Brei?

    Usually, matzo brei is served during the week of Passover, when Jews cannot eat leavened bread or any other flour products (except matzo and matzo meal).  Matzo Brei is often served as a breakfast or brunch dish, and it can be enjoyed sweet or savory, depending on the ingredients that are used.

    It is a delicious and versatile comfort food dish that has become a cherished tradition among Jewish families around the world.

    Nowadays, making fried matzo for my family is the easiest thing ever. With a batch of homemade matzos on the kitchen counter, making "one of the life's most perfect foods" on Passover morning takes minutes.

    Prepared with a pinch of Dijon mustard, a little bit of milk, and lots of help from the world's tiniest cook, this matzo brei is always a huge success - and has everyone convinced that matzos are actually God's gift to the Jews (or to parents whose toddlers won't eat anything that doesn't come in a squeeze packet, apparently).

    Passover is the perfect chance to dive into a plateful of matzo brei. Whether you have a Jewish grocery store around the corner, or if, like me, you were forced to make your own homemade matzos this year, finish off the holiday with a bang, and make yourself a skillet's worth of matzo brei. Your stale matzos will thank you.

    matzo sheet close up

    What are Matzos?

    Matzo, also spelled as matzoh, matza or matzah in Hebrew, is an  unleavened flatbread that is traditionally eaten during the Jewish holiday of Passover. It is made from flour and water and must be baked within 18 minutes of the flour coming into contact with water to prevent it from rising. This symbolizes the haste in which the Jewish people fled from Egypt during the Exodus.

    Matzo is one of the symbolic foods eaten during the Passover Seder. Matzo is often used in place of bread during the week of Passover and can be eaten plain, topped with spreads or used in various recipes. It is also a common food for Jewish people during other times of the year (my husband is addicted to matzo pizza - it's his favorite type of pizza dough!).

    close up on small matzo brei serving with sour cream and parsley

    What Kind of Matzo Works Best for Matzo Brei?

    Matzo Brei is made from leftover matzo, and it's a great use for all the broken little bits of matza that one finds at the bottom of the matzo package. The staler your matzos are, the better!

    The type of matzo used in this dish can significantly impact its flavor and texture. Traditional matzo, which is made from just flour and water, is the most commonly used type of matzo in matzo brei.

    However, egg matzo, which contains eggs in its dough, can also work well and add a richer flavor. 

    Ultimately, the choice of matzo depends on personal preference and availability. Experimenting with different types of matzo can help you discover which works best for your perfect matzo brei.

    Can Matzo Brei be made Gluten Free?

    If you are like me, and have a dietary restrictions that prevents you from eating gluten, gluten-free matzo is also an option. Although it is more brittle than traditional matzo, it works perfectly for matzo brei! Just don't soak it too long in the water or it can crumble.

    close up on small matzo brei serving with sour cream and parsley

    What else can I make with matzo?

    Though not known for its arresting flavor, the best thing about matzo is that it can be used to make a variety of dishes throughout the year.

    One popular recipe is matzo ball soup, where the matzo is finely ground and mixed with eggs and other ingredients to form fluffy balls that are added to chicken soup (I love to make this with gluten free matzos). 

    Matzo can also be used as a substitute for bread in sandwiches, or turned into a crispy coating for fried foods (just grind it in the food processor briefly).

    For a sweet treat, matzo can be used as a base for one of the best toffee treats I've ever had - matzo toffee. It can also be made into a dessert pizza topped with Nutella, fruit, or other toppings.

    The possibilities with this versatile ingredient are endless and can add a unique twist to any recipe.

    matzo brei ingredients with onion

    Ingredients

    • matzo sheets - you can use store bought matzo crackers, homemade matzah, egg matzah or gluten free matzah.
    • eggs
    • milk - you can use any regular or non-dairy milk you like, or even water
    • Salt
    • Pepper
    • Dijon mustard or paprika (optional) - this is optional to add more flavor to your fried matzo.
    • Butter - you can also use Earth Balance or olive oil, for frying

    Mix-ins: 

    • Thinly slivered onions, mushrooms, or thin ribbons of fresh spinach (optional)

    See recipe cards for exact quantities.

    Equipment

    • 2 Large bowls
    • 1 small bowl
    • 1 Non-stick pan
    close up on small matzo brei serving with large plate in background

    How To Make Matzo Brei

    soaking matzo in water

    Wet matzos

    Run matzo under a tap of running water for 30 seconds. Alternatively, fill a large bowl or casserole dish with cold water and submerge the matzo crackers in it for 20-30 seconds (if using gluten-free matzo, 20 seconds are enough).

    egg mixture, soaked matzo and whisk

    Break matzo into small pieces

    Break matzo into small pieces or about 1-2 inches. Transfer to a large bowl or casserole dish.

    egg mixture, soaked matzo and matzo pieces

    Make egg mixture

    In a small bowl, beat eggs thoroughly. Add milk, salt and pepper, and mustard/ paprika (if using), and mix well to combine.

    Pour the egg mixture on top of the pieces of matzo. Mix well to combine.

    Mazto Brei for Passover

    Cook matzo brei

    Melt butter, Earth Balance, or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

    OPTIONAL: If using onions, mushrooms, or any other mix-ins, add them to the skillet first and fry for 10 minutes, until the sautéed onions change colour (if using spinach, do not add it yet).

    Add matzo mixture to the pan, and mix well. Cook, stirring constantly, until the eggs are set, about 2-3 minutes (if using spinach, add along with egg mixture).

    overhead matzo brei with sour cream and parsley and small plate serving

    Serve matzo brei with your favorite toppings

    Taste and correct seasonings, topping with more salt and pepper to taste.

    Serve matzo brei with your favorite toppings, like sour cream or apple sauce.

    Mazto Brei for Passover

    Variations and add-Ins

    I love making savory matzo brei with onions, mushrooms and spinach added in.

    Matzo brei with caramelized onions and gouda is an amazing savory treat.

    Some popular variations include:

    • Sweet Matzo Brei with apples and cinnamon (use the caramelized apples from this recipe as a topping)
    • Matzo Brei with smoked salmon and cream cheese
    • Matzo Brei with mushrooms and herbs
    overhead matzo brei with sour cream and parsley and small plate serving

    What to Serve with Matzo Brei

    Matzo brei, whether sweet or savory, is a delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. When it comes to what to serve with matzo brei, the options are endless. Some of my favorites include:

    • Sour cream
    • Fresh herbs
    • Applesauce
    • Maple syrup
    • Date syrup
    • A drizzle of honey
    • Caramelized apples
    • Sliced bananas and Nutella
    • Fresh berries
    close up on small matzo brei serving with sour cream and parsley

    FAQ

    What does matzo brei mean?

    Brei (rhymes with fry) is German for a mash, or semi-solid food. In Yiddish, brei means to fry. So Matzo Brei literally translates as, "Fried Matzah".

    Is matzo brei kosher?

    Absolutely! What makes matzo unkosher is if you soak it too long in water. In this case, matzo is soaked in water for 20-30 seconds, not enough time to break the 18-minutes rule.

    How do you pronounce matzo brei?

    The word “matzo” is pronounced “maht-zoh,” with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word “brei,” on the other hand, is pronounced “bry” like in “try,” with the stress on the second syllable. To say “matzo brei,” you should start by saying “maht-zoh,” then pause for a brief moment and say “bry.”

    How many carbs in matzo brei?

    A basic matzo brei recipe made with two sheets of matzo, two eggs, and salt would have around 30-35 grams of carbohydrates. Adding sugar or other sweeteners would increase the carb count. Those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet may need to limit their portion sizes or choose alternative recipes with fewer carbs.

    How many calories does matzo brei have?

    A serving size of matzo brei with one matzo and one egg, cooked in a tablespoon of butter, contains approximately 230 calories. However, this figure can increase to up to 400 calories per serving if larger portions, more eggs, or additional butter are used.

    Where did matzo brei originate?

    Matzo brei is a traditional Jewish dish that originated in Eastern Europe and has spread throughout the world.

    Can you freeze matzo brei?

    Yes, you can freeze matzo brei! While it's best to eat matzo brei fresh, leftover portions can be frozen for later use. To freeze matzo brei, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. To reheat frozen matzo brei, heat it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Frozen matzo brei may not be as crispy as freshly made, but it's still a delicious way to enjoy this classic dish.

    Tried and loved this recipe? Please leave a 5-star review below! Your reviews mean a lot to me, so if you've got any questions, please let me know in a comment.

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    Recipe

    overhead matzo brei with sour cream and parsley

    Classic matzo Brei

    Ksenia Prints
    This matzo brei recipe is one I make every Passover! Savory scrambled eggs with soaked and fried matzah, matzo brei is truly one of life's most perfect foods. Eggy, pillowy and full of delicious matzos, it's the best brunch with which to celebrate Passover.
    5 from 51 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save Recipe Saved Recipe!
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 5 minutes mins
    Total Time 10 minutes mins
    Course Breakfast, brunch
    Cuisine Israeli, Jewish, Russian
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 157 kcal

    Equipment

    • 2 Large bowl
    • 1 small bowl
    • 1 Non-stick pan

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 matzo sheets regular, gluten free or 2 large homemade matzah crackers
    • 3 eggs
    • 2 tablespoon milk
    • Salt to taste
    • Pepper to taste
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or 1 teaspoon paprika optional
    • 2 tablespoons Butter you can also use Earth Balance or olive oil, for frying
    • Thinly slivered onions, mushrooms, or thin ribbons of fresh spinach optional

    Instructions
     

    • Run matzo under a tap of running water for 30 seconds. Alternatively, fill a large bowl or casserole dish with cold water and submerge the matzo crackers in it for 20-30 seconds (if using gluten-free matzo, 20 seconds are enough).
    • Break matzo into small pieces or about 1-2 inches. Transfer to a large bowl or casserole dish.
    • In a small bowl, beat eggs thoroughly. Add milk, salt and pepper, and mustard/ paprika (if using), and mix well to combine.
    • Pour the egg mixture on top of the matzo pieces. Mix well to combine.
    • Set a skillet to medium-high heat. Melt butter, Earth Balance, or olive oil.
    • OPTIONAL: If using onions, mushrooms, or any other mix-ins, add them to the skillet first and fry for 10 minutes, until the onions change colour (if using spinach, do not add it yet).
    • Add matzos and egg mixture to the pan, and mix well. Cook, stirring constantly, until the eggs are set, about 2-3 minutes (if using spinach, add along with egg mixture).
    • Taste and correct seasonings, topping with more salt and pepper to taste.
    • Serve matzo brei with your favorite toppings, like sour cream or apple sauce.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 157kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 139mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 74mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 365IUCalcium: 31mgIron: 1mg
    Keyword easy, eggs, gluten free option, matzah, matzo, passover, simple, spring, vegetarian
    Tried this recipe?Comment + Rate Below!
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    Reader Interactions

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    1. Elizabeth S says

      March 29, 2023 at 3:17 pm

      5 stars
      Just like grandma's recipe. So delicious! Can't wait to make it again.

      Reply
    2. Maria says

      March 29, 2023 at 3:47 pm

      5 stars
      Excellent recipe!

      Reply
    3. Sharon says

      March 29, 2023 at 10:33 pm

      5 stars
      We really enjoyed this dish! I served it with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of honey and we gobbled it all up.

      Reply
    4. Addison says

      March 30, 2023 at 12:52 am

      5 stars
      This recipe was such a great hearty breakfast! I loved the bold flavors and delicious textures too!

      Reply
    5. Sharina says

      March 30, 2023 at 9:11 am

      5 stars
      It was my first time making our own matzo brei, and I am glad I made it! It was so cozy and rich in flavor! New comfort food recipe!

      Reply
    6. Steph says

      March 30, 2023 at 1:51 pm

      I made this matzo brie recipe for breakfast and it was absolutely delicious! The whole family enjoyed it.. Thanks xx

      Reply
    7. Gen says

      April 01, 2023 at 11:42 am

      5 stars
      I’ve been wanting to make matzo brei for a long time and I’m so glad I came across your recipe! It was just wonderful. I loved the crispy-soft texture and the sour cream topping. So good!

      Reply
    8. Sue says

      April 02, 2023 at 9:46 am

      5 stars
      This recipe was completely new to me and I'm so glad I found it. What a delicious breakfast!

      Reply
    9. Steve says

      April 08, 2023 at 2:42 am

      There are as many ways of making matzah brei as there are people making matzah brei.
      The author of this column makes a savory scramble. I make a sweet matzah pancake.
      I am cooking for one, so I crumble up a single piece of matzah in a bowl, run cold water into it, and then squish out as much water as I possibly can. I crack a single egg into this soggy matzah and combine thorughly. Perhaps I will add a dash of salt.
      I pour the matzah-egg mixture into a sizzling hot well-buttered 10 inch frying pan, and spread it out as much as I can with the back of a fork. In a minute or two, when the bottom is set, I will flip it. When I am sure that the bottom is set, I will slide it into the serving plate, and serve immediately, topped with jam (preferably home made).
      The author and I disagree on how to make matzah brei. Both of us are "right".
      In fact, there is no "wrong" way to make matzah brei, unless you come up with something that you don't like. In that case, just try again.

      Reply
      • kseniaprints says

        April 09, 2023 at 6:04 am

        Steve, I absolutely LOVE that you took the time to share a detailed response with how YOU make your matzo brei. It’s entirely mouthwatering (I actually do the same for matzo brei pizza) and that’s exactly the beauty of a dish as customizable as matzo brei. Once again, happy Passover - and thank you for taking the time to read and respond!

        Reply
    10. Jennifer says

      April 17, 2023 at 4:27 pm

      5 stars
      This is such a great recipe. It's a little different from how my Oma used to make it but I think I like this way better! Yum!

      Reply
      • kseniaprints says

        April 19, 2023 at 11:04 am

        it's great that everyone has their own way!!

        Reply

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    Tried and loved this recipe? Please leave a 5-star review below! Your reviews mean a lot to me, so if you've got any questions, please let me know in a comment.