Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Russia! This vibrant red borscht isn't just a soup—it's a comforting embrace of rich flavors, generations of culinary tradition, and pure, soul-warming goodness. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food enthusiast, Kristine's legendary Russian Red Borscht promises to revolutionize your understanding of comfort food, delivering a symphony of tastes that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Russian home.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Russian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 beets, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 potato, diced
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and grate the beets, chop the onion, and grate the carrots. Dice the potato into small cubes and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the grated carrots to the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Next, add the grated beets to the pot. Stir well to combine all the vegetables and allow them to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the diced potato.
- Stir in the tablespoon of vinegar, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let the borscht simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 45 minutes, check the vegetables for tenderness. If they are cooked through, remove the pot from heat. If they need more time, allow them to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Once the borscht is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- To serve, ladle the borscht into bowls and garnish with fresh dill. Offer sour cream on the side for a creamy addition to the soup.
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality beets for the most vibrant color and robust flavor. Organic beets can make a significant difference in taste.
- Don't rush the sautéing process—allowing onions and vegetables to caramelize slowly develops deeper, more complex flavors.
- For an extra layer of richness, consider using homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.
- The vinegar is crucial—it adds a subtle tanginess that balances the earthy beet flavor. Use a good quality white or apple cider vinegar.
- Let the borscht rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Fresh dill is non-negotiable—it adds an authentic Russian touch and brightens the entire dish.
- Serve with a dollop of high-fat sour cream to create a luxurious, creamy texture that complements the soup's robust profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
