Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Our Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This delightful beet soup is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Packed with nutrients and bursting with fresh flavors, this borscht will not only satisfy your hunger but also impress anyone you share it with!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With all ingredients prepped in advance, making this dish is a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beets, vegetables, and spices creates a deliciously rich soup.
• Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with vegetables, this borscht is not only filling but also packed with essential nutrients.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it suitable for any season.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for freezing or quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (5 1/2 Qt or larger)
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Grater
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking large batches of soup evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding to the soup.
• Grater: Makes preparing beets easy and quick, ensuring they cook evenly in the soup.

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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 soon super easy and care free. 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)

For Additional 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)

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

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

Step 2: Sauté Beets

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

Step 3: Cook Soup Base

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

Step 4: Sauté Additional Vegetables

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

Step 5: Final Seasoning

1. When potatoes and carrots reach desired softness, add brown beans with their juice, bay leaves, vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic clove, and dill.
2. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes; adjust seasoning as needed.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Classic Borscht Recipe today!

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Serving Classic Borscht is about enhancing its vibrant flavors and creating a comforting meal. Here are some delightful suggestions to accompany your beet soup.

With Sour Cream

• Adding a generous dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy texture and balances the tanginess of the soup.

With Fresh Dill

• Sprinkle fresh dill over the soup as a garnish for an aromatic touch that complements the beets beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.

With Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled vegetables provides a tangy contrast that enhances the overall taste experience.

With Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Sliced hard-boiled eggs can add protein and richness, making your meal more hearty and filling.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Perfecting your Classic Borscht can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some tips to ensure your beet soup is a hit.

• Use Fresh Beets: Fresh beets provide the best flavor and color. Look for firm beets without soft spots for optimal results.
• Adjust Vinegar to Taste: Begin with less vinegar and gradually increase it to find the right balance of acidity for your palate.
• Sauté Vegetables Longer: To develop deeper flavors, sauté onions and celery until they are golden brown before adding them to the pot.
• Try Different Broths: Experiment with different types of broth, such as vegetable or chicken, for varying flavors in your borscht.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Serve Hot: Borscht is best enjoyed hot, so reheat it gently just before serving for maximum comfort.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Borscht can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this beet soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds flavor and texture, perfect for dipping into the borscht.
2. Potato Pancakes: Crispy potato pancakes offer a delicious contrast to the soft textures of the soup.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that pairs well with the warmth of the borscht.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of beets.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds richness; choose mild varieties to avoid overpowering the borscht’s flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the prep work – Not having all ingredients prepped can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Prepare and measure everything before starting to cook for a smoother process.
• Overcooking vegetables – Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them, especially potatoes and carrots; they should be tender but not falling apart.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland soup. Always taste as you go, adding more salt or vinegar to suit your preference.
• Using low-quality broth – A poor-quality broth will impact the flavor of your borscht. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
• Ignoring the vinegar balance – Adding too little or too much vinegar can throw off the soup’s acidity. Start with less and adjust gradually until you find the perfect balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The borscht can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 2-3 minutes, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup):

What is Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Classic Borscht is a vibrant beet soup known for its rich flavor and beautiful color. It’s often served warm with sour cream or dill.

Can I customize my Classic Borscht Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like cabbage or parsnips, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, or even adjust the herbs according to your taste.

How do I serve Classic Borscht?

Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise on top. Fresh bread or rye is often paired with it for a complete meal.

Is Classic Borscht healthy?

Yes! This soup is full of nutrients from fresh vegetables. Adjusting the oil used can make it even lighter while still being delicious.

Final Thoughts

The Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and herbs to suit your tastes. It’s a great dish for family gatherings or meal prep, ensuring everyone enjoys a comforting bowl of vibrant beet goodness!