Description
Easy Vegetarian Borscht is a vibrant and hearty beet soup filled with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. This traditional Eastern European soup features a beautiful deep red color and a balanced blend of earthy, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add beets and carrot: Stir in the grated beets and carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes to slightly soften and meld flavors.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor.
- Add broth and veggies: Pour in the 6 cups of vegetable broth, then add diced potatoes and shredded cabbage to the pot.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Finish with seasoning: Stir in lemon juice or vinegar, sugar if using, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill. Offer a spoonful of sour cream on the side if desired.
Notes
- The soup develops deeper flavors and often tastes even better the next day.
- Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative to lemon juice for acidity.
- Sour cream is optional but adds a creamy texture and tanginess.
- For a vegan version, omit the sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
