Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a vibrant and hearty dish that warms the soul. This traditional Ukrainian and Russian soup combines earthy beets with fresh vegetables, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe stands out for its rich color and comforting taste. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or real mayo to elevate every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The blend of beets, vegetables, and spices creates a deliciously complex taste that your family will adore.
• Easy to Prepare: With prepped ingredients, making this Borscht is straightforward and stress-free, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it hot or cold; Borscht can be served as a main course or an appetizer, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields about 10 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing the Classic Borscht Recipe much easier. Below are essential tools that will help you whip up this delightful beet soup with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (5 1/2 Qt or larger)
• Large skillet
• Vegetable peeler
• Grater
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Provides ample space for cooking all the ingredients together without overflow.
• Vegetable peeler: Makes peeling beets, potatoes, and carrots quick and easy.
• Grater: Helps in shredding beets efficiently, ensuring they cook down quickly.

Ingredients

Our family’s go-to recipe for Borscht (Red Beet Soup). It’s best to have all of the ingredients prepped and ready to go which makes this soup super easy and carefree. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or real mayo.

Vegetables

• 3 medium beets (peeled and grated)
• 3 medium yukon potatoes (peeled and sliced into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 carrots (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 2 celery ribs (trimmed and finely chopped)
• 1 small red bell pepper (finely chopped, optional)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

Liquids

• 4 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 8 cups chicken broth (+ 2 cups water)

Flavorings

• 4 Tbsp ketchup or 3 Tbsp tomato sauce
• 1 can white cannellini beans with their juice
• 2 bay leaves
• 2-3 Tbsp white vinegar (or to taste)
• 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 large garlic clove (pressed)
• 3 Tbsp chopped dill

How to Make Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

1. Peel, grate, and/or slice all vegetables.
2. Keep sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning until ready to use; then drain just before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Beets

1. Heat a large soup pot over medium/high heat.
2. Add 2 Tbsp of olive oil.
3. Add grated beets; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Base Ingredients

1. Pour in 8 cups of broth along with 2 cups of water.
2. Add sliced potatoes and carrots; cook for 10-15 minutes until easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Aromatics

1. While potatoes are cooking, place a large skillet over medium/high heat.
2. Add remaining 2 Tbsp of olive oil.
3. Add chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper; sauté until softened and lightly golden (about 7-8 minutes).
4. Stir in ketchup; sauté for another 30 seconds before transferring to the soup pot.

Step 5: Final Cooking Steps

1. Once potatoes and carrots reach desired softness, add:
2. 1 can of beans with their juice,
3. 2 bay leaves,
4. 2-3 Tbsp white vinegar,
5. 1 tsp sea salt,
6. 1/4 tsp black pepper,
7. 1 pressed garlic clove,
8. 3 Tbsp chopped dill.
9. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes; adjust salt and vinegar to taste.

Enjoy your Classic Borscht Recipe warm with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht is not just a dish; it’s an experience that can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Here are some delightful ways to serve your beet soup.

With Sour Cream

• Dollop of Cream: Add a generous dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the beets.

With Fresh Dill

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over your bowl for an aromatic touch that enhances the soup’s flavor profile.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with Bread: Enjoy your borscht alongside slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich broth.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Add Some Zing: Serve with pickled cucumbers or radishes to introduce a crunchy, tangy contrast to the smooth soup.

With Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Protein Boost: Top your borscht with sliced hard-boiled eggs for added protein and a creamy texture.

With Sauteed Mushrooms

• Earthy Addition: Sauteed mushrooms can add a savory depth to each spoonful of borscht, balancing its sweetness beautifully.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

To make your Classic Borscht truly shine, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your beet soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh beets and vegetables; they enhance the flavor and nutrition of your borscht.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and vinegar, then adjust according to personal taste as you cook. This prevents over-seasoning.
• Let it Rest: Allow your borscht to sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. The flavors develop and deepen over time.
• Experiment with Vinegar: Different vinegars (e.g., apple cider or red wine) can bring unique flavors; don’t hesitate to experiment!

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Borscht will enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Pirozhki: These stuffed pastries can be filled with meat, potatoes, or cabbage, providing a hearty addition to your meal.
2. Potato Pancakes (Latkes): Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these are perfect for soaking up borscht’s delicious broth.
3. Cabbage Rolls: Filled with rice and meat, these rolls complement the sweet and sour notes of borscht beautifully.
4. Rye Bread: Its dense texture and earthy flavor pair wonderfully with beet soup, making each bite satisfying.
5. Salad Olivier: This traditional Russian salad made with potatoes, carrots, peas, and mayonnaise adds a refreshing crunch alongside the warm soup.
6. Vareniki (Dumplings): Filled with potato or cheese, these dumplings can offer a comforting side that pairs nicely with borscht.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to prepare all your ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion and delays. Take time to peel, chop, and measure everything before you start cooking.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on your potatoes and carrots; they should be tender but not falling apart.
• Skipping the vinegar: Vinegar adds necessary acidity that balances the flavors. Don’t skip this step; adjust to your taste after simmering for best results.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup, so using a low-quality or bland broth can affect the whole dish. Opt for a good-quality chicken or vegetable broth.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste your soup as it cooks and make seasoning adjustments with salt and vinegar to suit your preferences.
• Serving without garnish: A dollop of sour cream or mayo enhances flavor and presentation. Don’t forget this final touch when serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last up to 5 days when properly stored.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Borscht can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Classic borscht has roots in Eastern European countries like Ukraine and Russia. It’s traditionally made with beets and other vegetables.

Can I add meat to Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Yes! You can add cooked beef or pork for extra flavor. Just make sure it’s tender before adding it to the soup.

Is Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with vitamins from beets and other vegetables, making it a nutritious option.

How can I customize my Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cabbage or turnips, or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not just a meal; it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have at home or prefer in taste. Whether served hot as a main course or chilled as a refreshing dish, this borscht recipe is sure to delight!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and vibrancy of our Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup). This traditional Eastern European dish, rooted in Ukrainian and Russian cuisine, combines earthy beets with an array of fresh vegetables. Its rich color and comforting taste make it the perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners. The delightful balance of flavors is further enhanced by a dollop of sour cream or mayo, making each bowl a feast for the senses. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, this nutritious soup is versatile enough to serve as a main course or appetizer.

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Ingredients

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• 3 medium beets, peeled and grated
• 3 medium Yukon potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can white cannellini beans
• Seasonings: bay leaves, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, dill

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Instructions

1. Prep all vegetables by peeling, grating, and chopping them as needed.
2. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté grated beets for about 10 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth and water to the pot along with diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Cook for 10-15 minutes until tender.
4. In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil; sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until golden. Add ketchup before transferring to the soup pot.
5. Stir in cannellini beans, bay leaves, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, and dill. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg