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Matzo Pancakes: A Taste of Tradition

The Cultural Legacy of Matzo Pancakes

Matzo pancakes, often referred to as “pompishkehs,” represent a cherished aspect of Ashkenazi Jewish culinary tradition, particularly during Passover. The preparation process of crushing matzo allows for greater control over the final texture, resulting in delightful pancakes that can evoke cherished memories and flavors from the past. The practice of soaking the matzo in water before combining it with eggs not only softens it but also creates a unique batter that produces a rich, satisfying dish.

Growing up, my grandmother’s culinary heritage revealed itself largely through the stories and recipes documented by her twin brother, my great-uncle Shush. Despite his minimal enthusiasm for some traditional foods—many of which featured offal—Shush’s enthusiasm for matzo pancakes stood out. He fondly recalled enjoying these pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar, elevating them in his culinary memory as one of the greatest comfort foods of their era.

A Nostalgic Favorite

Of the dishes crafted by their mother, a Latvian immigrant, the names of many remain unfamiliar today; gefilte fish is one notable exception. However, the popularity of dishes like miltz, p’tcha, and lungens faded, likely due to familial preferences expressed by Shush and his siblings. Yet, matzo pancakes emerged as a beloved staple, often prepared quickly by our grandmother—always served shiny and warm, alongside granulated sugar for dusting.

The term “pompishkeh” found scant mention outside its familial context, yet it mirrors similar foods found in other cultures, such as the Ukrainian “pampushka.” Claudia Roden, in her classic work The Book of Jewish Food, documents various names for these pancakes, further reflecting their diverse identities across different Jewish communities.

The Simplicity of Preparation

Making matzo pancakes requires a few simple steps. Start by crushing the matzo into irregular pieces. The size is flexible based on preference; some may like a crunchier texture with larger pieces while others may prefer a finer consistency. Soaking the matzo in cold water for a brief period allows it to soften before draining and combining with beaten eggs and a pinch of salt.

Cook the mixture in a buttered skillet, shaping them into small pancakes, and enjoy the toasty, flavorful outcome of this ancient dish. The distinct flavor of matzo, having already been cooked during its initial processing, enriches the final product, providing a unique taste profile you won’t find in conventional pancakes.

Connecting Generations Through Food

Parents today, like myself, find joy in passing down culinary traditions to our children. I’ve recently embraced making matzo pancakes for my young son. This straightforward recipe not only provides a quick breakfast option but also serves as a tangible link to my heritage. He delights in these pancakes—a testament to their enduring appeal across generations.

Recipe: Making Matzo Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 4 sheets of matzo (about 1.5 ounces each)
• 4 large eggs
• Kosher salt
• Unsalted butter, for greasing the pan
• Granulated sugar, for serving

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, break the matzo sheets into small pieces, choosing the size based on your texture preference.
2. Add enough cold water to saturate the matzo and let it soak for about a minute. Drain the matzo, pressing out excess water, and return it to the bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a generous pinch of salt. Combine the eggs with the soaked matzo and mix well.
4. In a large nonstick or cast iron skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Spoon the matzo batter into the pan, forming small oval pancakes. Cook until golden brown on one side (about 2 minutes), then flip and cook the other side until similarly golden (1 to 2 minutes more).
5. Continue with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed. Maintain a consistent heat to ensure even cooking.
6. Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a platter and keep warm. Serve with granulated sugar on the side for sprinkling.

Equipment Needed

A large cast iron skillet or nonstick skillet is recommended for optimal cooking results.

Conclusion

Matzo pancakes offer a flavorful glimpse into the culinary traditions that many Jewish families hold dear. With their simple preparation, rich history, and delightful taste, they remain a beloved dish that embodies both nostalgia and family heritage.

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