Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a delightful and hearty soup that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. This vibrant dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe showcases the earthy sweetness of beets paired with tender vegetables. Enjoy it warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise for an extra treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted beets, fresh vegetables, and herbs creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Easy Preparation: With all ingredients prepped in advance, making Borscht becomes a stress-free experience.
• Versatile Ingredient Options: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins and minerals from beets and other veggies, this soup is a healthy addition to any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools can make your experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (5 1/2 Qt or larger)
• Large skillet
• Grater or food processor
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly without spilling.
• Grater or food processor: Speed up the preparation time by quickly grating beets and slicing vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy cutting through tough vegetables like potatoes and carrots.

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.

For the Base

• 3 medium beets (peeled and grated)
• 4 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 8 cups chicken broth (+ 2 cups water)

Vegetables

• 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)

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 Ingredients

1. Peel, grate, and slice all vegetables. Keep sliced potatoes in cold water until ready to use to prevent browning; drain before adding them to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Beets

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

Step 3: Add Broth and Vegetables

1. Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth along with 2 cups of water.
2. Add sliced potatoes and carrots.
3. Cook for 10-15 minutes until they are easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics

1. While potatoes cook, heat another large skillet over medium/high heat with 2 Tbsp oil.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper; sauté for about 7-8 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in ketchup or tomato sauce for about 30 seconds before transferring this mixture into the soup pot.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

1. Once potatoes and carrots are tender, add the can of beans with their juice, bay leaves, vinegar, salt, black pepper, pressed garlic clove, and chopped dill.
2. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes; adjust salt and vinegar according to taste.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Borscht Recipe warm!

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Serving Classic Borscht is a delightful experience that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your beet soup experience.

With Creamy Toppings

• Sour Cream – A classic pairing that adds a rich, tangy flavor.
• Greek Yogurt – A healthier alternative that offers creaminess without the fat.
• Real Mayonnaise – For those who prefer a smoother texture with a hint of sweetness.

Accompanied by Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Dill – Sprinkling fresh dill on top enhances the borscht’s earthy notes.
• Chives – Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Served with Bread

• Crusty Bread – A slice of artisan bread for dipping makes every spoonful better.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These provide an additional layer of flavor and texture.

Pairing with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Beets – Extra beets add an interesting twist to the meal.
• Pickled Cucumbers – Their crunch complements the smoothness of the soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Perfecting your Classic Borscht requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Beets – Fresh beets have superior flavor compared to canned ones, enhancing your soup’s taste.
• Balance Acidity – Adjust the vinegar level gradually; this will help you achieve the right tanginess without overpowering the beets.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly – Ensure onions and celery are lightly golden for a deeper flavor profile.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds all ingredients, resulting in a richer taste.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your borscht and adjust salt and vinegar levels for desired flavor.
• Garnish Creatively – Don’t hesitate to experiment with garnishes like herbs or toppings for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Pumpernickel Bread – This hearty bread adds depth and goes well with beet flavors.
2. Potato Pancakes – Crispy potato pancakes provide a delightful contrast in texture.
3. Cabbage Salad – A light, tangy salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables – Offers an earthy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with borscht.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The melty cheese pairs well with the warm soup for a comforting combo.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice mixed with herbs can absorb some of that delicious beet broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup), a few common mistakes can affect the final flavor and texture. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Not peeling the beets properly: Always peel your beets before grating. The skin can be tough and may add an unpleasant texture to the soup.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes and carrots. They should be tender but still hold their shape for the best texture in your soup.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing onions, celery, and bell peppers enhances their flavors. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt and vinegar to get that perfect balance of flavors.
• Using old vegetables: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Always use fresh beets and vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup).

What is Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a traditional Eastern European dish made primarily from beets, giving it a distinct color and flavor.

Can I make Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this classic soup.

How do I store leftover Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Store leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What can I serve with Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Serve with crusty bread, sour cream, or fresh herbs like dill for added flavor.

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

Feel free to add other vegetables like cabbage or replace beans with lentils for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. With its rich flavor profile and vibrant color, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients or toppings!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a vibrant and nourishing dish that captures the essence of hearty Eastern European cooking. This beautiful beet soup is not only visually stunning but also brimming with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The rich, earthy sweetness of roasted beets melds seamlessly with tender vegetables and aromatic herbs, resulting in a comforting bowl of goodness. Enjoy it warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh dill for an added touch.

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Ingredients

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• 3 medium beets (peeled and grated)
• 4 Tbsp olive oil
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 3 medium Yukon potatoes (peeled and sliced)
• 2 carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 2 celery ribs (chopped)
• 1 small red bell pepper (optional, chopped)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 Tbsp ketchup or 3 Tbsp tomato sauce
• 1 can white cannellini beans (with juice)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2–3 Tbsp white vinegar
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 clove garlic (pressed)
• Fresh dill for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare all vegetables by peeling, grating, and slicing as needed. Keep sliced potatoes in cold water to avoid browning.
2. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sauté the grated beets in 2 Tbsp olive oil for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Add the chicken broth and water to the pot along with the sliced potatoes and carrots. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
4. In a separate skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté onions, celery, and bell pepper for about 7 minutes until softened. Stir in ketchup or tomato sauce before adding this mixture to the soup pot.
5. Stir in beans, bay leaves, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, and dill. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 185
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg