Classic Ukrainian Borscht (Beet Soup)

Classic Ukrainian Borscht (Beet Soup)

A hearty, vibrant soup celebrating the earthy sweetness of beets and seasonal vegetables.

KEY INFO

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 6-8
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Diet: Vegetarian (optional), Gluten-free

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven (6-8 quart)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Vegetable peeler
• Box grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• (Alternative: Food processor for chopping)

INGREDIENTS

Base Vegetables:

• 3-4 medium beets (500g/1lb) – peeled and grated
• 1/2 head cabbage (500g/1lb) – shredded
• 2 medium potatoes (400g/14oz) – diced
• 2 carrots (200g/7oz) – grated
• 1 large onion – finely diced
• 3-4 garlic cloves – minced

Liquids & Seasonings:

• 8-10 cups vegetable or beef broth (2-2.5L)
• 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh dill – chopped

For Serving:

• Sour cream
• Extra fresh dill
• Crusty bread

METHOD

1. Heat oil in your pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until softened (5-7 minutes).
2. Add grated beets and tomato paste, cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, add bay leaves and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
4. Add diced potatoes and shredded cabbage. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in minced garlic and vinegar. Cook for 2 minutes.
6. Add chopped dill, salt to taste. Simmer for final 5 minutes.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Don’t skip the initial sautéing – it develops essential flavor
• Use rubber gloves when handling beets to prevent staining
• Add vinegar gradually, tasting as you go
• Never boil vigorously after adding beets to maintain color

Storage & Reheating:

• Keeps in fridge for 5 days
• Freezes well for 3 months
• Reheat gently on stovetop
• Add fresh dill and sour cream only when serving

Common Mistakes:

• Overcooking the vegetables
• Not balancing the sweet/sour flavors
• Adding sour cream to entire pot instead of individual bowls

Variations:

• Add diced beef for traditional meat version
• Use white beans for extra protein
• Summer version: Add fresh tomatoes and bell peppers
• Winter version: Include parsnips and celery root