Ukrainian Green Borscht

If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer, then this Ukrainian Green Borscht is just what you need! This soup is not only packed with nutritious greens but also brings a delightful tang from the lemon juice. It has quickly become a favorite in my household because it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends. You can serve it warm or chilled, making it incredibly versatile!

What I love most about this Ukrainian Green Borscht is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Each spoonful is like a hug in a bowl, embracing you with comfort and flavor. Let’s dive into why this recipe will win your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: This soup is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with greens like spinach and zucchini, it’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare this borscht in advance, making it perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously refreshing: The bright flavors of lemon juice and fresh herbs will brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Ukrainian Green Borscht. You probably have many of these on hand already!

For the Soup Base

• 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (minced)
• 1 medium carrot (grated on a large grater)
• 3 large potatoes (cubed)
• 4 cups spinach (chopped)
• 1 zucchini (cubed)

For Flavor and Garnish

• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 eggs (hard-boiled and cubed)
• 1/2 cup parsley or dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream (for serving)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some green beans or kale for added nutrition.
• Change the protein: Substitute eggs with chickpeas for a vegan-friendly option.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
• Use different herbs: Experiment with basil or cilantro instead of parsley or dill for a unique twist.

How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes. Reducing the heat to medium-low allows the potatoes to cook through without getting mushy—this step ensures they stay tender yet firm.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and grated carrot. Cooking these together for about ten minutes until they soften brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your borscht.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes have cooked for about 15 minutes, add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture along with the cubed zucchini and chopped spinach to the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes. This step helps meld all those beautiful flavors together while ensuring that the spinach is wilted but still vibrant.

Step 4: Add Flavor Enhancers

Stir in the lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and chopped parsley or dill. Adding these ingredients at this stage ensures they retain their freshness and brightness—a key characteristic of Ukrainian Green Borscht.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Remove from heat and serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream on top. The creamy contrast against the tangy soup makes every bite utterly delightful!

Now that you’ve got all these steps down, I can’t wait for you to enjoy this incredible bowl of warmth! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht

Making Ukrainian Green Borscht is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh greens – Fresh spinach or a mix of other greens enhances the flavor and nutrition of your borscht. Look for vibrant, crisp leaves to ensure the best taste.

• Sauté your vegetables – Sautéing the onion and carrot before adding them to the soup brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the overall flavor profile of your borscht.

• Adjust acidity – Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference. A bit more acidity can brighten up the dish and balance the flavors beautifully.

• Experiment with herbs – While parsley and dill are traditional, feel free to try other herbs like cilantro or chives for a unique twist that complements the greens in your soup.

• Let it sit – Allowing your borscht to rest for a few minutes before serving can deepen the flavors as they meld together beautifully in the pot.

How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht

Presenting your Ukrainian Green Borscht can be just as enjoyable as making it! This vibrant dish not only warms the soul but also adds a splash of color to your table.

Garnishes

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang that perfectly balances the soup’s freshness.
• Chopped herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill on top before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side to allow guests to add an extra squeeze of citrus if desired.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your borscht, soaking up all those delightful flavors.
• Potato pancakes (deruny): These crispy pancakes made from grated potatoes pair wonderfully with borscht, offering a satisfying texture contrast.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar, oil, and herbs provides a cool counterpart to the warm soup.
• Pickled vegetables: A small serving of pickled vegetables adds an exciting tang that complements the borscht’s flavors beautifully.

Enjoy serving this healthy, flavorful dish at lunch or dinner – it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your borscht.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Avoid adding sour cream until you’re ready to serve to keep it creamy and fresh.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quicker thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Ukrainian Green Borscht.

What greens can I use in Ukrainian Green Borscht?

While spinach is a traditional choice, you can also use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are chopped finely for even cooking.

Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already versatile; simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a hearty vegetarian soup that everyone will love.

How do I serve Ukrainian Green Borscht?

Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream on top. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the flavor. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal!

How long does Ukrainian Green Borscht last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Ukrainian Green Borscht lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Is Ukrainian Green Borscht healthy?

Yes! Packed with nutritious vegetables and healthy greens, this soup offers vitamins and minerals while being relatively low in calories.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Ukrainian Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s such a vibrant and healthy addition to any meal, perfect for summer days when fresh greens are at their peak. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or herbs to make this recipe your own. Wishing you happy cooking—enjoy every spoonful!