What is the unleavened bread eaten during Passover called? The answer is matzah.
Matzah is a flat, unleavened bread that plays a central role in Passover. Jewish tradition connects it with the Exodus from Egypt: the Israelites left in such haste that their dough could not rise, so they baked unleavened bread. During Passover, leavened foods known as chametz are prohibited, and matzah is eaten especially during the Seder.
Traditional matzah is made from flour and water, with the dough mixed, shaped, and baked quickly so fermentation does not begin. Many authorities use an eighteen-minute limit from the time the water touches the flour until baking is complete. Holes are pricked in commercial matzah to stop it puffing up like ordinary bread.
Matzah is also called matzo or matza, depending on transliteration and pronunciation. It may be crisp and cracker-like or, in some traditions, soft and bread-like. It should not be confused with pita, baguette, or challah, all of which are normally leavened or prepared outside Passover dietary rules. Ground matzah, called matzah meal, is used in dishes such as matzah balls.