Classic Ukrainian Borscht

Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian beet soup known for its vibrant color, deep earthy flavors, and nourishing ingredients. Served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs, this hearty dish is perfect for any season. Whether enjoyed as a comforting winter meal or a refreshing chilled summer soup, borscht is a staple of Eastern European cuisine that brings warmth and tradition to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Hearty – A flavorful, nutritious soup made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Vibrant & Healthy – Beets provide a natural sweetness and earthy depth while offering antioxidants and nutrients.
• Customizable – Easily made vegetarian or with beef broth for added richness.
• Traditional & Authentic – A classic Eastern European recipe passed down through generations.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Borscht:

• Beets (peeled and diced)
• Potatoes (peeled and diced)
• Carrot (peeled and grated)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Cabbage (shredded)
• Tomato (chopped) or tomato paste
• Vegetable or beef broth
• Bay leaf
• Salt & black pepper
• Sugar
• Vinegar (white or apple cider)
• Vegetable oil
• Fresh dill (chopped)

For Serving:

• Sour cream
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Broth:

1. In a large pot, bring broth to a boil.
2. Add potatoes and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

3. In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Sauté onions and carrots until soft.
5. Add beets and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

3. Combine & Simmer:

7. Transfer sautéed vegetables to the pot.
8. Add cabbage, garlic, salt, pepper, sugar, and vinegar.
9. Simmer for another 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

4. Finish with Herbs:

10. Stir in fresh dill and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve & Garnish:

11. Ladle hot borscht into bowls.
12. Top with sour cream and fresh parsley or dill.
13. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: 190 kcal per serving

Variations

• Meat Version – Add beef shank or short ribs for extra richness. Simmer meat in broth for 1–2 hours before adding vegetables.
• Vegan Borscht – Use vegetable broth and swap sour cream for dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream.
• Chilled Summer Borscht – Let the soup cool and refrigerate for a refreshing cold version.
• Spicy Borscht – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Sweet & Sour Balance – Adjust sugar and vinegar levels to taste for the perfect balance.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze borscht in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until hot.

FAQs

What does borscht taste like?

Borscht has a sweet, earthy, and slightly tangy flavor from the beets and vinegar, balanced by the savory broth and aromatic herbs.

Can I make borscht without cabbage?

Yes! While cabbage adds texture, you can omit it or replace it with kale or spinach.

Why is vinegar added to borscht?

Vinegar enhances the natural sweetness of the beets and prevents them from losing their color.

Can I use canned beets?

Yes, but fresh beets provide the best flavor. If using canned, reduce cooking time since they’re already soft.

What is traditionally served with borscht?

• Sour cream (for creaminess)
• Dill or parsley (for freshness)
• Dark rye bread or garlic pampushky (Ukrainian garlic bread)

Is borscht better the next day?

Yes! The flavors deepen, making it even tastier after resting overnight.

Can I add beans to borscht?

Yes! Kidney beans or white beans make a great addition for extra protein.

How do I prevent beets from staining my hands?

Wear gloves or rub hands with lemon juice after handling beets.

Conclusion

Classic Ukrainian Borscht is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting soup that brings together deep earthy flavors, vibrant color, and rich tradition. Whether served hot or cold, this dish is a must-try for lovers of Eastern European cuisine. Enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs, and experience the authentic taste of Ukraine in every spoonful!