Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This vibrant beet soup is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Its unique blend of flavors, combined with the nutritional benefits of beets and fresh vegetables, makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With all ingredients prepped beforehand, this soup comes together in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beets, vegetables, and spices creates a deliciously complex taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot or cold, and pair it with your favorite toppings like sour cream or dill.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from beets and fresh veggies, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the correct equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for simmering the ingredients together evenly and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the soup.
• Grater: Makes quick work of preparing beets and other veggies, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup):
– 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)
– 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

Start by peeling, grating, and slicing all your vegetables. Keep the sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning until you are ready to use them.

Step 2: Sauté the Beets

Heat a large soup pot over medium/high heat. Add 2 Tbsp of olive oil. Once hot, add the grated beets. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and water into the pot with beets. Then add the sliced potatoes and carrots. Cook for about 10–15 minutes until they are easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Cook Other Vegetables

While your potatoes are cooking, heat another skillet over medium/high heat. Add the remaining olive oil along with chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper if using. Sauté for about 7–8 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the ketchup or tomato sauce for about 30 seconds before transferring everything into the soup pot.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Once your potatoes reach desired softness, add in the can of beans with their juice, bay leaves, white vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, pressed garlic clove, and chopped dill. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or vinegar as needed.

Enjoy your Classic Borscht Recipe warm!

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Serving Classic Borscht is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This vibrant beet soup can be enjoyed in many ways, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

With Sour Cream

• Add a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup for a creamy contrast. This addition balances the earthy flavors of the beets and adds richness.

Garnished with Fresh Dill

• Sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the soup before serving. The bright, herbaceous notes complement the sweetness of the beets beautifully.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread or rolls. This allows guests to soak up every delicious drop of the borscht.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Offer pickled vegetables as a tangy side. The acidity cuts through the richness of the soup, adding another layer of flavor.

As Part of a Cold Platter

• Include borscht in a cold platter with other appetizers. It pairs wonderfully with salads, cheeses, and spreads for a refreshing start to any meal.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Perfecting your Classic Borscht takes just a few thoughtful steps to enhance the flavor and texture of this beloved soup.

• Use Fresh Beets: Fresh beets provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, improving both taste and appearance.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your borscht towards the end and adjust salt, vinegar, or pepper to suit your preference.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take your time when sautéing onions and celery; caramelization adds depth to the overall flavor.
• Experiment with Vinegars: Different vinegars (like apple cider or white wine vinegar) can add unique twists to your borscht.
• Let It Rest: Allowing borscht to sit for a few hours or overnight enhances its flavors as they meld together.
• Serve Hot or Cold: Borscht can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Experiment to find your favorite way!

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Borscht can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into warm borscht while adding a savory element.
2. Potato Pancakes: Crispy potato pancakes (latkes) offer texture contrast and complement the flavors of beet soup.
3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with dill provides freshness and crunch, making it an excellent side.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes add sweetness and earthiness that pair well with borscht.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors of the beet soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad dressed lightly in olive oil serves as a hearty accompaniment without overpowering the borscht.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooeyness from grilled cheese offers comfort while being easy to prepare alongside borscht.
8. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: These savory rolls filled with rice and meat make for a filling pairing that complements the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Prep: Failing to prep all ingredients beforehand can slow you down. Have your vegetables peeled, chopped, and ready to go before starting the cooking process.

• Overcooking Beets: Cooking beets for too long can make them lose their vibrant color and flavor. Sauté them just until softened, about 10 minutes.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Not tasting as you cook can result in a bland soup. Always taste your borscht and adjust salt and vinegar levels to suit your preference.

• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key for the best flavor. Ensure your beets, vegetables, and herbs are fresh for optimal taste.

• Neglecting the Beans: Forgetting to add beans can result in a less hearty soup. The beans not only add protein but also enhance the texture of your borscht.

• Not Letting It Rest: Skipping the resting time after cooking can miss out on deepening flavors. Allow your borscht to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Classic Borscht can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

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

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely; heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup), here are some commonly asked questions:

What is Classic Borscht?

Classic Borscht is a traditional soup made primarily from beets, giving it its distinctive red color. It often includes vegetables like potatoes and carrots, and is sometimes served with sour cream.

Can I customize my Classic Borscht Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or even include different types of beans according to your taste preferences.

How do I serve Classic Borscht?

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or a splash of vinegar on top. Fresh dill also makes a great garnish!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in both the fridge and freezer, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit any animal-derived products like sour cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan version of borscht.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not only delicious but also versatile. With its vibrant color and rich flavor profile, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with different veggies or spices according to your preference—enjoy experimenting!