As I stood by the stove, the earthy aroma of simmering beets wafted through my kitchen, transporting me to the heart of Eastern Europe. Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl—rich, nourishing, and bursting with family tradition. This soulful soup combines tender beef and a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or meal prep. You can even tailor it to your taste with easy vegetarian swaps, making it accessible for everyone at your table. Trust me, this vibrant bowl of goodness is bound to become a cherished staple in your home! Are you ready to dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to make it your own?

Why is Borscht the Ultimate Comfort Soup?

Heartwarming Tradition: This Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup is steeped in history, making it a cherished dish for family gatherings and celebrations.

Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of earthy beets, savory beef, and zesty vinegar creates a deep, rich taste that warms you from the inside out.

Endless Variations: Easily transform this recipe by swapping beef for vegetable broth and adding kidney beans to create a hearty, vegetarian dish that everyone can enjoy.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch on the weekend, store it in the fridge, and enjoy delightful lunches all week long!

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks will find joy in preparing this scrumptious soup.

Whether paired with French Garlic Soup or served alongside hearty rye bread, Ukrainian Borscht is bound to fill your kitchen with happiness!

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to make warm and inviting borscht!

For the Soup

Beets – Fresh beets provide vibrant color and sweetness; avoid using canned for best results.
Beef Chuck/Shank – This cut adds depth and richness to the broth; for a vegetarian option, swap it for hearty vegetable broth.
Carrots – Fresh carrots enhance sweetness and texture, making the soup even more delicious.
Potatoes – Any type of potatoes works wonderfully to add heartiness and bulk to the soup.
Cabbage – Use fresh green or savoy cabbage for a crunchy and earthy element.
Onion – Essential for foundational flavor, the onion is a must-have in any savory dish.
Garlic – A key aromatic that infuses your soup with a delightful fragrance and taste.
Tomato Paste – This adds umami and helps thicken the borscht for a luscious texture.
White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Use it to balance the sweetness of beets and brighten the overall flavor.
Bay Leaves – These add a subtle depth of flavor that makes the broth irresistible.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your soup.
Fresh Dill – Adds a burst of freshness as a garnish, truly elevating your borscht experience.
Sour Cream – This traditional accompaniment lends creaminess and richness to each bowl of borscht.

These ingredients come together to create the Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup that nourishes both the body and soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, place your beef chuck or shank and cover it with water. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours. As it cooks, skim off any foam that rises to the surface, ensuring a clear broth that serves as the foundation of your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the broth is simmering, wash and peel your beets, carrots, potatoes, and onion. Chop the potatoes and carrots into bite-sized pieces, slice the cabbage thinly, and finely chop the onion and garlic. You may also choose to grate the beets for a smoother texture in your soup. Setting these aside will prepare you for the next steps in crafting your rich soup.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the grated beets and carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for an additional 5-7 minutes until they soften. Stir in the tomato paste along with a splash of your simmering broth, allowing it to meld together with the vegetables for a few more minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the broth has reached the desired simmer, remove the beef and shred it using two forks. Strain the broth if necessary, then return it to the pot. Add the chopped potatoes and cabbage first, letting them cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, incorporate your sautéed beet mixture into the pot, creating a vibrant mix that will form the heart of your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Simmer
Return the shredded beef to the pot and mix in white vinegar or lemon juice, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. The aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a comforting meal ahead. Keep an eye out for the colorful vegetables becoming tender.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once ready, ladle the hot borscht into bowls and add a generous dollop of sour cream on top. Sprinkle freshly chopped dill over each serving for a burst of freshness. Serve your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup hot, alongside crusty bread or garlic rolls to complete this heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

What to Serve with Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Complete your meal and delight your family with these delicious pairings that elevate your borscht experience!

Hearty Rye Bread: This dense, flavorful bread perfectly complements the vibrant soup, providing a satisfying texture for dipping.
Garlic Bread Rolls: Warm, buttery rolls infused with garlic add a comforting, aromatic touch to the table.
Ukrainian Dumplings: These soft, pillowy delights filled with potato or cheese make the perfect indulgent side, soaking up the rich broth.
Pickled Vegetables: A zesty side of pickled cucumbers or beets adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory warmth of the borscht.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly salted and steamed to a tender crispness, they introduce freshness to the hearty meal, providing a lovely color contrast.
Crème Fraîche Topping: Instead of sour cream, a dollop of crème fraîche brings a rich, tangy accent that enhances the sweet and earthy flavors.
Fresh Salad: A mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity to counter the richness of the soup.
Cranberry Juice: A glass of chilled cranberry juice provides a sweet-tart contrast, cleansing your palette between each hearty spoonful.
Honey Cake: Round off your meal with a slice of traditional honey cake, offering a sweet satisfaction that complements the earthy borscht flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will develop even further, making each bowl even more delightful!

Freezer: Freeze your borscht in BPA-free containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing to maintain its vibrant color and taste.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Size: If meal prepping, consider portioning the soup into single servings for easy, quick lunches throughout the week!

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting variations and take this comforting soup to new heights with your personal touch!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar creamy finish. You won’t miss the creaminess at all!
Vegetarian: Replace beef with vegetable broth and toss in some hearty kidney beans for added protein and depth, creating a delicious meat-free option.
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding kale or spinach. Their vibrant greens not only enhance the color but pack a nutrient punch too.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an exciting kick in each bowl. It’s delightful to feel that warmth with every spoonful!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to introduce new layers of flavor. These can transform your borscht into a herbaceous delight.
Beet Greens: Don’t toss those beet greens! Sauté them alongside the other vegetables to add texture and a unique taste while utilizing the whole beet.
Citrus Zest: For a refreshing brightness, add the zest of an orange or lemon. This simple tweak can elevate the flavor profile.

Whether you’re seeking comfort from the traditional flavors or a twist to impress your guests, this Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup is versatile enough for any dining occasion. Pair it with a delightful French Garlic Soup or enjoy a slice of hearty rye bread on the side for a complete experience. Happy cooking!

Tips for the Best Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup

Use Fresh Beets: Fresh beets retain their vibrant color and sweetness, creating a more flavorful soup than canned options can offer.

Properly Sauté Aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic until translucent enhances the soup’s base flavor, avoiding bitterness while enriching your broth.

Balance Sweetness: Adjust sugariness by tweaking the amount of vinegar or lemon juice to achieve the perfect tangy balance in your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup.

Mind the Cook Time: Don’t overcook your vegetables; they should remain tender but not mushy, ensuring a delightful texture in each bowl.

Vibrant Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh dill; it adds a refreshing finish that brightens the rich flavors of your soup, making each serving even more enjoyable.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; flavors will deepen, making tomorrow’s meal even tastier!

Make Ahead Options

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor rich flavors even on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and even prepare the broth up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the chopped potatoes, beets, carrots, onions, and garlic in airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté your aromatics and add the prepped veggies to your simmering broth, which should be reheated on the stove. This method keeps everything tasting just as delicious while saving you precious time. Enjoy a hearty, nourishing bowl of borscht with minimal effort by prepping ahead!

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of beets should I use for the borscht?
Absolutely! Fresh beets are essential for the best flavor and vibrant color in your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup. Avoid canned beets as they tend to lose their sweetness and vibrant hue. Look for firm, smooth-skinned beets without any dark spots or softness for optimal results.

How should I store leftover borscht?
You can store your borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will actually deepen and improve over time, making tomorrow’s meal even more delightful! Just remember, the soup may thicken as it cools, so you might need to add a little broth or water when you reheat it.

Can I freeze borscht?
Very easily! Allow your Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup to cool completely before transferring it to BPA-free containers or freezer bags. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth if needed.

What can I substitute for beef in the borscht?
If you’re looking to prepare a vegetarian version, switch out the beef for vegetable broth. I recommend adding kidney beans or chickpeas to enhance protein content. For a creamier texture, consider also adding more vegetables like zucchini or squash!

How can I adjust the flavor if my borscht is too sweet?
To balance out any excessive sweetness from the beets, simply tweak the amount of vinegar or lemon juice added to your borscht. Start with a tablespoon at a time—taste, and then adjust until you’ve reached that perfect balance of tangy and sweet!

Does the soup need to be served immediately after cooking?
Nope! In fact, I often find that flavors in the Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Soup meld beautifully when allowed to sit for a few hours or even overnight! If you can, let it cool, then refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve for a heartwarming dish that tastes like you’ve slaved over it all day!