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Ukrainian Borscht Soup Recipe for Classic Comfort

Ukrainian Borscht Soup

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Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup is a hearty, colorful, and deeply flavorful traditional Eastern European dish made with beets, beef, and cabbage. It’s a classic comfort food often served with sour cream and fresh dill, perfect for a family-style Slavic dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef chuck or shank (bone-in for extra flavor)
  • 8 cups water
  • 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage (red or green)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add beef and water. Bring to a boil, skim the foam, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to create a rich broth.
  2. Add chopped beets, carrots, and onion to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes to infuse the soup with deep earthy flavors and vibrant color.
  3. Stir in cubed potatoes and chopped cabbage. Cook for another 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  4. Add tomato paste, garlic, vinegar, sugar, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Remove bay leaves and beef (shred or chop the beef as desired), then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Notes

  • Use bone-in beef for a richer, more flavorful broth.
  • Red or green cabbage can be used based on your preference.
  • Let the soup sit for a few hours or overnight for even deeper flavor.
  • Can be served hot or cold depending on the season.

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