Beef Borsch
A hearty Eastern European beet soup with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy touch of vinegar, perfect for comforting family meals or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut beef into 1 inch pieces and place in a Dutch oven or large pot.
- Add water, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove bay leaf from the soup.
- Add sliced celery, chopped onion, chopped garlic, vinegar, sugar, and thyme.
- Simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Thinly slice the cabbage and add it to the pot.
- Continue cooking, covered, until meat and cabbage are tender.
- Drain the beets, reserve the liquid, and blend with flour to create a slurry.
- Stir the beets and flour mixture into the soup and cook, stirring constantly, to thicken slightly.
- Add the drained beets and simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef stew meat before simmering. You can substitute fresh beets for jarred if desired, just be sure to cook them until tender. If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour to the beet slurry. For added depth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the borsch hot, topped with a generous dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Polish Meatballs or with a salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the borsch gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Borsch contains roughly 186 calories, with 8g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1433mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, borsch can be made a day ahead. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating, and reheat gently when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of beef stew meat?
You can substitute beef chuck or brisket for a similar flavor and texture. For a lighter option, consider using chicken or turkey, though cooking times will vary. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use mushrooms and vegetable broth as a base.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the borsch?
The sweetness can be adjusted by altering the sugar content or using sweeter beets. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the sugar or add a splash of vinegar to balance it out. Taste as you go to achieve your preferred flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).