ukrainian borscht soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best ukrainian borscht soup recipe

I am absolutely thrilled to share with you my favorite Ukrainian borscht soup recipe, which has become a staple in our household. This vibrant beet-based soup is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds.

I first encountered borscht on a trip to Eastern Europe, where it was served as a hearty, comforting meal during the cold winter months. The combination of beets, cabbage, and vegetables in a rich broth is truly unbeatable.

What I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. My kids adore helping me prepare the ingredients, from chopping the beets to adding the sour cream on top.

It’s become a fun family activity that we all look forward to every week. Borscht is not just a meal; it’s an experience that connects us to our heritage and culture.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how this recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick, satisfying dinner. The best part?

It’s packed with nutrients and antioxidants from the beets and vegetables, making it a guilt-free choice for any occasion.

Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Ukrainian Borscht Soup

4.6 from 955 votes

Ukrainian Borscht is a hearty, comforting soup made with beetroot, cabbage, and a variety of vegetables. It is traditionally served with sour cream and a side of rye bread.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time90 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hrs
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 medium beets, peeled and grated
2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups cabbage, thinly shredded
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 bay leaf
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (for garnish)
Sour cream (for serving)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2Add onions and carrots, sauté until softened and lightly browned, approximately 5 minutes.
3Add grated beets to the pot, cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4The beets will release liquid and begin to soften.
5Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Add diced potatoes, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
7Stir well to combine.
8Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
9Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
10Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
12Remove the bay leaf.
13Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Grater
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of vegetable broth. You can also add a small amount of sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.

This Ukrainian borscht soup recipe has become an integral part of our family traditions and gatherings.

Its versatility allows us to serve it at any occasion – from casual weeknight meals to special events like holidays or potlucks.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its ease of storage and reheating; simply let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Q: What is borscht and where does it come from?

Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian soup made with beets, vegetables, and sometimes meat or sausage. Its origins date back to ancient times when beets were used as a natural food coloring. Over time, the recipe evolved to include various ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.

Q: What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The essential components of borscht are beets, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes beef or pork for added protein. You can also customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes.

Q: How do I prepare the beets for this recipe?

To prepare the beets, peel them using a vegetable peeler or grater. Then chop them into small pieces or grate them using a box grater. This will help release their natural sweetness and flavor.

Q: Can I make borscht without using beef or pork?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute beef or pork with vegetarian options like mushrooms or tofu for added protein.

Q: How long does borscht keep in the fridge?

Borscht can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat until warm through before serving.

Similar Posts