Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Our Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is a delightful dish that embodies the rich flavors of beets and vegetables. This vibrant soup is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep. With its bold taste and colorful presentation, it stands out on any table. Plus, it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With all ingredients prepped beforehand, this soup comes together quickly.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beets, broth, and spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor that warms the soul.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from beets and other veggies, it’s a healthy option for everyone.
• Large Batch: This recipe serves 10, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have all necessary tools ready. This will make your preparation seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

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

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)
• 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: Prepare Your Vegetables

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

Step 2: Cook the Beets

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

Step 3: Add Broth and Vegetables

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

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Once potatoes and carrots reach desired softness, add white cannellini beans with their juice, bay leaves, vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, pressed garlic clove, and chopped dill.
• Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or vinegar to taste.

How to Serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

Serving Classic Borscht is as important as preparing it. The right accompaniments can elevate this delightful beet soup and enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy your borscht.

With Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, balancing the earthiness of the beets.

With Fresh Dill

• Sprinkling chopped dill on top brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes, complementing the soup’s richness.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of crusty bread or baguette for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth perfectly.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Adding pickled cucumbers or beets provides a nice contrast in flavor and adds an extra crunch to each bite.

With Salad

• Pair borscht with a light salad, such as a cucumber or mixed greens salad, to refresh your palate.

With Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the borscht.

How to Perfect Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

To achieve the best results with your Classic Borscht recipe, consider these helpful tips that can make a difference in taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Beets: Fresh beets will provide more vibrant color and better flavor compared to pre-cooked or canned options.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving. You can always add more salt or vinegar based on your preference for acidity.

• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take your time when sautéing onions and other vegetables. This caramelization adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the borscht to rest for a few hours or even overnight can improve its flavors, as they meld together beautifully over time.

• Serve Hot: Enjoy your borscht hot, as it enhances the aromatic experience and richness of the ingredients.

• Consider Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like croutons or nuts for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

When enjoying Classic Borscht, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of borscht, adding a deliciously savory element.

2. Potato Pancakes: Crispy potato pancakes offer a satisfying crunch and pair well with the soft texture of the soup.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw introduces freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the warmth of borscht.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings out natural sweetness that complements the soup’s earthy flavors.

5. Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad balances the heartiness of the soup while providing a cool contrast on your plate.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can add creaminess and richness that pairs beautifully with beet soup.

7. Savory Scones: Flaky scones filled with herbs make a delightful addition, perfect for enjoying alongside your bowl of borscht.

8. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables create an excellent main dish that complements the borscht well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Borscht is a delightful soup, but there are common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the vegetable prep: Neglecting to properly peel and chop vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all ingredients are ready before you start cooking.
• Overcooking the beets: Cooking beets for too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they soften, then add the broth.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting as you go can result in a bland soup. Always adjust salt and vinegar to suit your taste preferences throughout the cooking process.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth will dilute the flavors of your borscht. Use a rich chicken broth for depth and warmth.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Serving immediately after cooking can miss out on enhanced flavors. Let the soup simmer briefly to combine all tastes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers for best results.

Freezing Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of real mayo adds creaminess and balances the flavors beautifully.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cabbage or swap beans for lentils for added nutrition.

How do I reduce acidity in my borscht?

If your soup is too acidic, try adding a pinch of sugar or an extra potato to balance the flavors.

What toppings can I use with my Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup)?

Chopped fresh dill, green onions, or even hard-boiled eggs make excellent toppings for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Borscht Recipe (Beet Soup) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors!