Ukrainian Supper(Borscht; Very Good)
A hearty Ukrainian borscht featuring tender meats, earthy vegetables, and vibrant beets, perfect for comforting gatherings and lovers of robust Eastern European flavors.
Ingredients
- 10 c. cold water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. soup meat ⓘ
- 2 lb. beef soup bones ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. smoked pig knuckles
- 1 leek ⓘ
- 1 large onion
- 1 large carrot ⓘ
- 5 sprigs parsley
- 2 c. cubed potatoes ⓘ
- 3 c. coarsely shredded cabbage ⓘ
- 2 tsp. tomato puree ⓘ
- 2 tsp. finely minced fresh garlic ⓘ
- 2 c. sliced cooked beets ⓘ
- 1 can (1 lb.) navy beans ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. vinegar
- 3 tsp. salt ⓘ
Instructions
- In a heavy pot, put 10 cups cold water, soup meat, soup bones, and pig knuckles.
- Bring to a slow boil.
- Add leek or onion, carrot, and parsley.
- Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, adding more liquid when needed.
- Cool, then refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- Discard surface fat.
- Strain stock; set aside meat and bones.
- Return liquid to the pot, adding water if necessary to make 8 cups.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes, cabbage, tomato puree, and garlic.
- Simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Add beets and bring again to a boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the smoked pig knuckles with bacon for a different taste. Fresh dill can be a great addition for garnish, enhancing the soup’s aroma. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meats and use vegetable broth while adding more beans and beets for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve borscht hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill for added creaminess and flavor. It pairs beautifully with Onion Papooses or crusty bread for dipping. A side of pickled vegetables can also complement the flavors, while a light salad helps balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, ensuring to leave space for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ukrainian Supper(Borscht; Very Good) contains roughly 1814 calories, with 36g protein, 295g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (248% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (138% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1361mg per serving (59% 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 borscht in advance?
Yes, borscht tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, and consider adding a bit more water if it has thickened.
What can I use instead of navy beans?
If you don't have navy beans, you can substitute them with cannellini beans or great northern beans. Both options will provide a similar texture and flavor, enhancing the heartiness of the soup.
Is there a vegetarian version of borscht?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian borscht, skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead. Increase the quantity of beets, potatoes, and beans to maintain a hearty texture. You can also add other vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for more flavor.
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).