Matzoh Ball Soup

Eating in a New York diner?
Here’s a little scoop:
You don’t have to be Jewish
To have matzoh balls in soup.

For in this local area
(New Jersey is included),
When soup is on the menu,
Matzoh ball won’t be excluded.

The chicken broth which forms the base
Should have sufficient salt,
Although complaints most often place
The matzoh balls at fault.

In restaurants, they’re often huge.
Most times, just one’s afloat;
But it should have a fluffiness
To fill you, not to bloat.

Though matzoh balls are served in soup
Each day throughout the year,
The only time I eat them’s when
The holiday* is here.

But like that Levy’s rye ad said,
You needn’t be a Jew
To eat some soup with matzoh balls – 
Go on, it’s good for you!

So if you’ve never had a taste,
It’s time to wet your whistle.
I guarantee you’ll love it,
Likely more than just a bissel**!

*Passover   **Yiddish for a little bit
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

Poem

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Zerbst Avatar
February 9, 2013 at 9:12 AM
A good metre for a humorous poem. I think iambic feet are suited to wit. Of course, the poem is true. Matzoh balls are good. You done a good job with this one.
Debole Avatar
February 4, 2013 at 4:38 PM
Hi Ilene - Oh my gosh! This brings back memories. My grandmother used to make matzoh balls. Haven't had one in years, but there is a Jewish deli nearby - so next time I'm there you know what I'm having. This is a great poem! - Gail
Horsman Avatar
February 4, 2013 at 8:42 AM
ilene you are the most... i have been taught so much from your wonderful poetry, poetry of today, about today,, it will never get much better than this.....
Grisetti Avatar
February 3, 2013 at 2:27 PM
haven't enjoyed matzoh ball soup for decades. I iused to find it at several places in Pittsburgh, but not so much in Disney world. A cute poem about the evedryday made special.
Harrell Avatar
February 3, 2013 at 2:24 PM
I don't know what that is. I don't think they serve it around here. It sounds fascinating! I would love to try it whenever I am in New York. Always educating - I love it!
Andresen Avatar
February 3, 2013 at 2:58 AM
Maybe I should try it sometime, Ilene. - Nice poem, like it. - Have a lovely Sunday. - oxox / / Anne-Lise :)
Fisher Avatar
February 2, 2013 at 6:48 PM
I'd like a bowl right now. What a well put together advertisement, and a lot of fun to read.
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