Borscht Recipe {Beet Soup} Belly Full

Cover Borsch Ukrainian Beet Soup {In Pressure Cooker} Let the Baking Begin! (900x1350)

Table of Contents

• What is Borscht?
• What are the Ingredients of Borscht?
• How to Make Borscht?
• What are the Health Benefits of Borscht?
• How to Serve Borscht?

What is Borscht?

Borscht is a soup that originated in Eastern Europe, specifically Ukraine. It is a beet-based soup that is popular in many countries, including Russia, Poland, and Romania. Borscht is usually served as a starter, but it can also be served as a main course. The soup is often accompanied by sour cream, dill, and garlic bread.

What are the Ingredients of Borscht?

The ingredients of borscht can vary depending on the region and the cook. However, the main ingredient that gives borscht its distinct flavor and color is beets. Other common ingredients include cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and tomato paste. Some recipes also call for meat, such as beef or pork, to be added to the soup.

How to Make Borscht?

There are many variations of borscht, but here is a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 medium beets, peeled and grated
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 6 cups of vegetable or beef broth
• 1 can of tomato paste (6 oz)
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp of dried dill
• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream and chopped fresh dill for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the beets, potatoes, carrots, and cabbage to the pot and sauté for a few minutes.
3. Add the broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, dill, and apple cider vinegar to the pot.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh dill, if desired.

What are the Health Benefits of Borscht?

Borscht is a nutritious soup that is packed with vitamins and minerals. The beets in borscht are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Beets are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Cabbage, another common ingredient in borscht, is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Carrots, onions, and garlic are also great sources of vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which can help improve vision and boost the immune system. Onions and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infections and promote overall health.

How to Serve Borscht?

Borscht is typically served hot, with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh dill on top. It is often accompanied by garlic bread or crusty bread. Borscht can also be served cold, especially during the summer months. In this case, it is called 'chilled borscht' and is often served with boiled potatoes or hard-boiled eggs.

Conclusion

Borscht is a delicious and nutritious soup that has been enjoyed for centuries in Eastern Europe and beyond. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or one that includes meat, borscht can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. So why not give this hearty soup a try and see why it has stood the test of time?