Traditional Borscht Recipe – Hearty and Flavorful Beet Soup

Traditional Borscht Recipe

Borscht is a traditional Eastern European soup known for its beautiful deep red color and earthy flavor, thanks to the beets. It’s a hearty, satisfying soup that is filled with vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, and is often served with a dollop of sour cream. This borscht recipe is perfect for cold winter days when you need something comforting and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium beets, peeled and grated
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 1/4 head of cabbage, shredded
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 6 cups vegetable or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the grated beets and carrots, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the cabbage, potatoes, broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
5. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Tips

For extra depth of flavor, add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar just before serving. You can also add shredded beef for a more filling version. Borscht tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for a richer flavor.

FAQs

• Can I make borscht vegetarian? Yes, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the recipe vegetarian.
• How do I store leftovers? Store borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Can I use canned beets? Yes, canned beets can be used as a substitute for fresh beets, though fresh beets provide a more vibrant color and flavor.
• What can I serve with borscht? Borscht is often served with crusty bread or rye bread and a side of sour cream.

Conclusion

Borscht is a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for chilly days. Its vibrant color and rich, earthy flavors make it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. Try this traditional borscht recipe and enjoy a taste of Eastern Europe right in your home!