Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This vibrant beet soup is not just a feast for the eyes but also packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prep, this borscht can be easily customized to suit your taste. Its unique combination of ingredients creates a rich depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of beets, vegetables, and spices creates a comforting and hearty taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With prepped ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly in about 70 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it hot as a main course or chilled as a refreshing summer soup.
• Nutrient-Packed: Full of vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Gather these items before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (5 1/2 Qt or larger)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Grater or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking big batches of soup while allowing ample space for stirring.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables quickly and evenly to enhance their flavors.
• Grater or food processor: Saves time by quickly preparing beets and other vegetables without hassle.

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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 Soup Base

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

For Flavoring

• 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

Begin by peeling, grating, and slicing all your vegetables. Remember to keep sliced potatoes in cold water until ready to use to prevent browning.

Step 2: Sauté the Beets

Heat your large soup pot over medium/high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil followed by the grated beets. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beets are softened.

Step 3: Add Broth and Veggies

Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth along with 2 cups of water. Add the sliced potatoes and carrots. Cook everything together for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Sauté Additional Vegetables

While your potatoes are cooking, take a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil along with chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper if using. Sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 7–8 minutes. Stir in the ketchup for an additional 30 seconds before transferring everything into the soup pot.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Once your potatoes reach the desired softness, add in the cannellini beans with their juice, bay leaves, white vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, pressed garlic clove, and chopped dill. Let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes while adjusting seasoning as needed.

This Classic Borscht Recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring joy to your dining table! Enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Serving Classic Borscht (Beet Soup) can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this vibrant soup.

With a Dollop of Sour Cream

• Adding a spoonful of sour cream enhances the richness of the soup and balances the earthy flavors of the beets.

Garnished with Fresh Dill

• Sprinkle fresh dill on top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and makes for a hearty meal.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Pairing borscht with pickled vegetables provides a tangy contrast that brightens each bite, making it even more enjoyable.

As Part of a Salad Course

• Serve chilled borscht as an appetizer or alongside a fresh green salad for a refreshing start to your meal.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

To make your Classic Borscht truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh beets and vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making a noticeable difference in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adding more salt or vinegar can tailor the borscht to your preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, resulting in a richer taste.
• Try Different Broths: Experiment with homemade chicken broth for added depth, or use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Cool Before Serving: Some find that borscht tastes even better the next day after cooling overnight in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld.
• Serve Hot or Cold: Enjoy this borscht warm for comfort or chilled as a refreshing summer dish.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread
   Warm garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious borscht.
2. Potato Pancakes
   Crisp potato pancakes offer a nice crunch that contrasts well with the smoothness of the soup.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad provides freshness and balances the rich flavors of the borscht.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   The gooey cheese and crispy bread make grilled cheese an irresistible pairing with beet soup.
5. Roasted Veggies
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and variety, enhancing your overall meal experience.
6. Pumpernickel Bread
   This dense, flavorful bread complements borscht’s earthy notes while providing an interesting textural contrast.
7. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness that pairs nicely with the savory-sweet profile of borscht.
8. Stuffed Peppers
   These hearty peppers filled with rice and vegetables can serve as a filling accompaniment to your soup, making it even more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup), it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Beets – Cooking beets too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until softened to maintain their texture.
• Ignoring Vegetable Prep – Not prepping vegetables in advance can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are ready before you start cooking.
• Using Too Much Vinegar – Adding too much vinegar can overpower the soup’s flavor. Start with less, and adjust it to your taste as you go.
• Neglecting Seasoning – Failing to season properly may result in bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs – Omitting fresh dill or other herbs diminishes flavor. Always finish with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

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

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
• Stovetop – Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) that might help you out.

What are the main ingredients in a Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

The main ingredients include beets, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and chicken broth, along with seasonings like vinegar and dill.

Can I customize my Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Yes! You can add more vegetables or adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Consider adding cabbage or using different types of beans for variety.

How do I know when my borscht is done?

Your borscht is done when the potatoes and carrots are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. The flavors should meld together beautifully at this stage.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Absolutely! Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat products for a delightful vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting flavors. We encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for any occasion!