Passover is a special Jewish holiday that lasts 8 days. It celebrates the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt. During this time, Jewish people eat different foods to remember the past.
Many traditional foods are made without flour or yeast. Instead of regular bread, they eat “matzo,” which is flat and crunchy. It's a time for family meals, fun stories, and of course—good food!
If you’re new to Passover or want easy recipes for your family, this guide will help you make tasty dishes that follow the rules of the holiday and are easy for beginners to cook. 🍴
🍞 What is Passover?
Passover (called “Pesach” in Hebrew) is one of the most important Jewish holidays. It remembers when the Jewish people escaped slavery in Egypt thousands of years ago. Moses, a leader chosen by God, helped free them. This story is told in the book of Exodus in the Bible.
One big part of Passover is that people don’t eat leavened bread—this means bread made with yeast or flour that rises. That’s because when the Israelites left Egypt, they didn’t have time to let their bread rise. So, they made flat bread called “matzo.”
Many families hold a special meal called a “Seder.” During the Seder, they read the story of Passover and eat symbolic foods like bitter herbs, roasted bone, matzo, and a sweet mixture called charoset. Each food represents part of the story.
Even if you’re not Jewish, you can enjoy the food and learn about the culture. And if you’re hosting or invited to a Seder, knowing some easy recipes will make it more fun and meaningful! 🍽️
🍽️ What Foods Are Allowed?
During Passover, Jewish people follow special food rules. Here are the basics:
✅ Yes: Fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat, chicken, fish, matzo, potato, and nuts.
❌ No: Bread, pasta, beer, cereal, or anything made with wheat, oats, barley, rye, or spelt that has risen.
Many people also avoid rice, beans, and corn—but this depends on tradition. Ashkenazi Jews (from Europe) usually avoid these, but Sephardic Jews (from Spain, Middle East) may include them.
Look for labels that say “Kosher for Passover” at the store. These foods are prepared in a way that follows the holiday rules. 🍎🥚🥬
🍲 Classic Matzo Ball Soup Recipe
Matzo ball soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s great for any Seder. Here’s a simple way to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup oil or chicken fat
- ¼ cup water or broth
- Salt and pepper
- Chicken broth
- Carrots and celery (optional)
How to make:
1. Mix matzo meal, eggs, oil, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Chill the mix for 30 minutes.
3. Roll into balls and drop into boiling water or broth.
4. Cook for about 30–40 minutes until soft.
Add carrots and celery to your broth for extra flavor. 🍜
🥘 Simple Brisket Recipe
Brisket is a holiday favorite. It’s juicy, full of flavor, and great for leftovers!
Ingredients:
- 3–4 lbs beef brisket
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- Salt, pepper, paprika
Steps:
1. Rub brisket with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Brown in a hot pan, then remove.
3. Cook onions and garlic in same pan.
4. Place everything in a roasting pan, pour broth and tomato sauce on top.
5. Cover and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 3–4 hours.
Slice and serve with vegetables or matzo. It’s super tasty! 🥩
🍪 No-Flour Chocolate Cookies
Looking for dessert? Try this easy cookie recipe with no flour!
Ingredients:
- 2 egg whites
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Bake 10–12 minutes.
These cookies are chewy, rich, and 100% Passover-friendly! 🍫
🥗 Healthy Vegetable Side Dish
Add color and health to your table with this easy veggie dish:
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchini
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 onion
- Olive oil, salt, pepper
Steps:
1. Chop all veggies into strips.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan.
3. Cook vegetables until soft, about 8–10 mins.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
It’s light, colorful, and perfect with any Passover meal. 🥕🌶️
❓ FAQ
Q1. Can I use baking powder during Passover?
A1. Usually no. Use Passover-approved ingredients only.
Q2. Can I eat rice on Passover?
A2. It depends on your tradition. Ask your family or rabbi.
Q3. Is chocolate allowed?
A3. Yes, if it's marked "Kosher for Passover."
Q4. What drinks are okay?
A4. Water, juice, and Passover-safe wine or soda.
Q5. Can kids help make matzo balls?
A5. Yes! It’s fun and easy for them to roll the balls.
Q6. Can I make recipes ahead of time?
A6. Absolutely. Brisket and matzo balls taste even better the next day.
Q7. Are leftovers okay during Passover?
A7. Yes, as long as they are made with Passover ingredients.
Q8. Where do I buy Passover items?
A8. Most big grocery stores have a Passover section in March or April.