Description
Ukrainian Borscht is a hearty and flavorful soup that features the earthy sweetness of beets combined with savory vegetables, beef stock, and a touch of tangy vinegar. This comforting dish is rich in flavor and tradition, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Served with sour cream and crusty bread, Ukrainian Borscht is a nourishing meal that can easily become a favorite.
Ingredients
4 medium beets
10 cups beef stock
1 large potato
½ 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
¼ cup fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
½ cup full-fat sour cream
1 loaf crusty bread
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse and scrub the beets. Peel and dice the carrots, cube the potato, and shred the cabbage. Peel and quarter the beets, then shred them using a food processor. Set the shredded beets aside.
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Cook the Onions: In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil and cook the chopped onion until translucent.
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Simmer the Soup: Add beef stock and bay leaves to the pot. Then, add the cubed potatoes, diced tomato, tomato paste, shredded beets, cabbage, carrots, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
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Season and Finish: Add 1 tablespoon of seasoning salt, taste and adjust with more seasoning salt if needed. Add pepper and balsamic vinegar, then stir in fresh dill. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
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Serve: Remove bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Serve with sour cream and crusty bread.
Notes
Beet Substitutes: Fresh beets are ideal for flavor and texture, but canned beets can be used if pressed for time.
Stock Options: While beef stock is traditional, chicken or vegetable broth can also be used for a lighter version.
Additions: For added flavor, you can toss in extra root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
Dairy-Free: To make the soup dairy-free, skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Traditional Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Ukrainian