Borscht
Welcome, my culinary explorer! Today, we're diving into the vibrant world of Borscht – a classic beetroot soup celebrated for its bold color and flavor. This dish is filled with healthy ingredients, perfect for cozy gatherings, and is a great way to impress friends and family. It’s not just a meal; it’s a soothing hug in a bowl!
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets peeled and grated; if you’re not a beet fan, try substituting with carrots for sweetness
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 carrots peeled and grated
- 1 medium potato cubed; can be swapped with sweet potatoes for a twist
- 1/4 head of cabbage shredded; you could use kale as a substitute
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar this gives it that tangy taste! Alternative: lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream for serving optional, but highly recommended
- Fresh dill for garnish you can use parsley if dill isn’t available
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot, drizzle a little oil and place it over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, add in the grated beets, carrots, and cubed potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes. You will probably find your kitchen smelling pretty fantastic at this point!
- Add the Broth: Carefully pour in your broth, making sure everything's nestled comfortably in the liquid. Also, mix in the tomato paste and bring it all to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling away, lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Let the flavors come together!
- Bring on the Cabbage: After your beautiful soup has been simmering, toss in the shredded cabbage and let simmer for another 10 minutes. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of crunch, you can sauté the cabbage separately before adding, which adds a nice texture.
- Season to Perfection: Now, don’t forget to add the apple cider vinegar, and spice it up with salt and pepper. Taste-test a spoonful and adjust to your liking!
- Serve It Up: Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s serve time! Spoon your Borscht into bowls, and don’t be shy with that sour cream on top. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh dill. It’s colorful, warm, and downright delightful!