Borscht is a classic Eastern European soup known for its deep red color, thanks to the beets. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a traditional recipe for beet borscht:
Ingredients
- 3 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 small cabbage, shredded
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 8 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
- Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
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Prepare the Beets:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the grated beets and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the vinegar, tomato paste, and sugar. This helps preserve the bright red color of the beets.
- Add a small amount of broth (about 1/2 cup) to the pot, cover, and let the beets simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- In a separate pan, melt the butter (if using) and sauté the chopped onion, grated carrot, and minced garlic until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Build the Soup:
- Add the sautéed onion, carrot, and garlic mixture to the pot with the beets.
- Pour in the remaining broth, add the diced potatoes, shredded cabbage, and bay leaf.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
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Season the Borscht:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
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Serve:
- Ladle the borscht into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Meat Option: If you prefer a heartier borscht, you can add beef or pork. Simply brown the meat before adding the vegetables and let it simmer in the soup until tender.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a slice of rye bread or garlic rolls for a complete meal.
Enjoy your borscht—a nutritious, warming dish that's rich in flavor and tradition!
