Ukrainian Borscht

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Borscht is not just a soup; it’s a celebration of rich, bold flavors. The earthy beets, tender potatoes, and fresh cabbage come together in a fragrant, savory broth that’s both comforting and filling. The sweet tang from the tomato paste and vinegar, along with the fresh dill, gives this soup a unique depth. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with a traditional dish, Ukrainian Borscht never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 4 medium beets

• 10 cups beef stock

• 1 large potato

• 1/2 large head green cabbage

• 4 carrots

• 1 tsp sunflower oil

• 1 medium onion

• 1 medium diced tomato

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp white sugar

• 3 bay leaves

• 1/4 cup fresh dill

• Salt and pepper, to taste

To Serve:

• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream

• 1 loaf crusty bread

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by rinsing and scrubbing the beets to remove any dirt. Set them aside.

2. Peel the carrots, half the cabbage, and set them aside.

3. Dice the carrots, cube the potato, and shred the cabbage.

4. Peel each beet, then cut into quarters. Place 2 at a time into a food processor and shred. Set the shredded beets aside.

5. In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil and cook the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.

6. Add the beef stock and bay leaves to the pot.

7. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomato, tomato paste, shredded beets, cabbage, carrots, and sugar.

8. Simmer the soup for 20 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of seasoning salt. Taste and adjust with more seasoning salt if needed, adding 1 teaspoon at a time. Then, add pepper and balsamic vinegar.

9. Stir in the fresh dill and allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

10. Remove the bay leaves and ladle the hot soup into bowls.

11. Serve with a generous dollop of sour cream and crusty bread. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Borscht: Skip the beef stock and use vegetable broth for a lighter, plant-based version.

• Spicy Borscht: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño for some heat.

• Smoky Borscht: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.

• Borscht with Meat: Add chunks of beef, sausage, for a heartier soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned beets for this recipe?

Fresh beets provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe. However, if you’re short on time, canned beets can be used in a pinch, but the flavor may be less intense.

Can I freeze borscht?

Yes, borscht freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables to the borscht?

Absolutely! You can add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of the soup or add an extra potato to the recipe.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

What is the best way to serve borscht?

Borscht is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of crusty bread. You can also add a boiled egg for an extra treat.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this borscht is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.

Can I use different types of stock?

While beef stock provides a rich flavor, you can substitute with chicken stock or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I store fresh dill?

Fresh dill can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. It will stay fresh for about a week.

Is Ukrainian borscht always made with beef stock?

While traditional Ukrainian borscht often uses beef stock, you can make it with any type of broth based on your preference or dietary needs.

Conclusion

Ukrainian Borscht is a classic, flavorful soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting meal on a cold day or as a delicious addition to your weekly rotation, this borscht is sure to be a hit. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and creamy finish from the sour cream, it’s a dish that will warm both your heart and your belly.