Clear Borsch
A light, clear beet-based soup with tangy tomato or lemon flavor, perfect for soothing and refreshing, suitable for those seeking a flavorful, healthful vegetarian or meat-based broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the soup meat with cold water in a large pot.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt, bring slowly to a boil, and skim off any foam.
- Cover and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Add the diced beets, chopped onion, shredded cabbage, diced celery, and diced carrot.
- Continue simmering for another hour.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of tomato juice or lemon juice.
- Add crushed garlic if desired.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil again.
- Let the borsch stand for a while if time permits to blend flavors.
- Strain through a sieve to clarify.
- Serve hot or cold with a dollop of sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some fresh dill while simmering the soup. If beets are not available, you can substitute with canned beets or even use a mix of root vegetables for added sweetness. Adjust the acidity by choosing between tomato juice and lemon juice based on your preference for tartness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the borsch hot or cold, topped with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Uncle Joe'S Punch for a refreshing beverage option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture and flavor of the borsch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clear Borsch contains roughly 1558 calories, with 31g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 Clear Borsch ahead of time?
Yes, Clear Borsch can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator enhances the flavors. Just reheat gently before serving.
What other vegetables can I add to the borsch?
Feel free to include other vegetables such as potatoes or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes to maintain even cooking.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of Clear Borsch?
Absolutely! You can replace the soup meat with vegetable broth and add more vegetables like mushrooms and peas. This will create a delicious vegetarian alternative without losing the essence of the dish.
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).