Borscht Recipe – Classic Eastern European Beet Soup
Learn how to make authentic Borscht – a vibrant and hearty beet soup from Eastern Europe. This healthy one-pot recipe is packed with vegetables, flavor, and perfect comfort for cold days!
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LSI Keywords: beet soup, Ukrainian borscht, Russian borscht, vegetarian borscht, beetroot soup, Eastern European soup
🥣 What is Borscht?
Borscht is a traditional beet soup popular across Eastern Europe—especially in Ukraine, Russia, and Poland. Known for its deep red color and sweet-earthy flavor, borscht typically includes beets, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes meat or beans. It’s served hot or cold, often with sour cream and fresh dill on top.
🛒 Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 medium tomato, chopped (or 1 tbsp tomato paste)
- 5 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh dill and sour cream for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans
- 1/2 lb beef stew meat or short ribs (for non-vegetarian version)
🍲 How to Make Borscht – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat oil. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Step 2: Add Root Vegetables
Add grated beets and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Cabbage
Stir in diced potatoes and shredded cabbage. Add tomatoes or tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer
Pour in broth, add bay leaf, vinegar/lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and fresh dill. Enjoy with rye bread or garlic rolls!
✅ Why You’ll Love This Borscht Recipe
- 🌱 Vegetarian-friendly (vegan option available)
- ❤️ Rich in nutrients, iron, and antioxidants
- 🍲 One-pot and easy to meal-prep
- 🧊 Can be served hot or cold
- 🥣 A hearty dish for lunch, dinner, or starters
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with sour cream, fresh dill, and crusty rye bread
- Add a dollop of horseradish for extra zing
- Enjoy chilled in summer or hot in winter
📝 Tips for Perfect Borscht
- Use fresh, earthy beets for the best color and flavor
- Add vinegar or lemon juice at the end to preserve the red color
- Let the soup rest 1–2 hours or overnight—flavors deepen beautifully
- Add beans or meat for extra protein
🇺🇦 More Hearty European Recipes to Try
- Hungarian Goulash – Paprika Beef Stew
- German Potato Salad – Warm & Tangy
- Russian Olivier Salad – Classic Potato Salad
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