Gefilte Fish Recipe: Traditional, Tender, and Flavorful

This Gefilte Fish recipe makes tender, flavorful fish patties gently simmered in a savory broth. Made with ground fish, onion, eggs, and simple seasonings, it is a traditional dish often served for Jewish holidays and special meals.

Why This Gefilte Fish Works

Fresh fish combined with onion and carrot creates a delicate flavor, while gentle simmering keeps the fish tender and moist. Chilling the finished gefilte fish allows the flavors to develop and makes it easy to serve.

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Ingredients

For the Fish

• 2 lbs ground white fish, such as carp, pike, or a combination
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup matzo meal
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup cold water

For the Broth

• 6 cups water
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley, optional

How to Make Gefilte Fish

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground fish, chopped onion, eggs, matzo meal, sugar, salt, pepper, and cold water. Mix until well combined.
2. Prepare the broth: Add water, sliced onion, carrots, salt, pepper, sugar, and bay leaves to a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Shape the fish: With wet hands, form the fish mixture into small oval patties. Keep the patties similar in size so they cook evenly.
4. Simmer: Carefully place the fish patties into the simmering broth. Cover partially and cook gently for about 45–60 minutes.
5. Cool: Turn off the heat and let the fish cool in the broth for about 30 minutes. This helps keep the patties moist and flavorful.
6. Chill: Transfer the fish patties to a container, spoon some of the broth and carrots over them, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
7. Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature with cooked carrots and a spoonful of prepared horseradish.

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Tips for the Best Gefilte Fish

• Use fresh, finely ground white fish for the best texture.
• Keep the broth at a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil.
• Wet your hands before shaping the fish mixture to prevent sticking.
• Make the patties similar in size so they cook evenly.
• Chill the gefilte fish before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Gefilte Fish recipe is a traditional and comforting dish with tender fish patties, flavorful broth, and sweet cooked carrots. Serve it chilled with horseradish for a classic holiday meal.