Matzo Ball Soup

Matzo balls—or kneidlach—are made in much the same way as any dumpling except that matzo meal replaces flour and, in keeping with Jewish tradition, no butter or dairy products are allowed in the batter. There are at least as many matzo ball recipes as Jewish grandmothers; some insist the matzo balls should be firm and chewy, while others, who claim lightness the ultimate goal, include seltzer water or even beaten egg whites to contribute the essential airiness. This recipe falls betw