Chicken Or Beef Borscht
A hearty and comforting soup combining tender chicken or beef with vegetables and a creamy tomato base, perfect for cozy family dinners or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken until done, then remove and cut into cubes.
- Cook the vegetables (cabbage, celery, carrots, onion, potatoes) until tender.
- Add the cooked chicken to the vegetables.
- Mix one can of cream of tomato soup with one can of evaporated milk.
- Add the tomato and milk mixture to the soup just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can sauté the onions before adding them to the soup. If you prefer beef, substitute chicken with beef stew meat and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also add beets for traditional borscht flavor. If you have leftover vegetables, consider using them in Easy Biafran Stew for another delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the borscht hot, garnished with fresh dill if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream. Consider a side of pickled vegetables for added tang. This dish also complements a fresh green salad or can be served as a hearty main course on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the borscht on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covering it loosely to prevent splatters. Be sure to heat it thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Or Beef Borscht contains roughly 837 calories, with 23g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (207% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 borscht vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. Add more vegetables such as beets, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Adjust seasonings as needed to ensure a well-balanced taste.
How can I thicken the borscht?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water. Cooking the soup longer will also help to naturally thicken it as the vegetables break down.
Can I freeze leftover borscht?
Yes, you can freeze borscht for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
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).