Ukrainian Green Borscht

If you’re looking for a refreshing and hearty dish to brighten your summer days, let me introduce you to my favorite Ukrainian Green Borscht! This vibrant soup is packed with healthy greens and brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Its delightful combination of ingredients makes it not only delicious but also an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my heart.

What I love most about Ukrainian Green Borscht is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of comfort that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the vibrant colors and the yummy flavors, so it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Nutrient-packed: Full of greens like spinach and zucchini, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe features simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. It’s all about bringing out the natural flavors of these lovely vegetables.

For the Soup

• 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (minced)
• 1 medium carrot (grated on a large grater)
• 3 large potatoes (cubed)
• 4 cups spinach (chopped)
• 1 zucchini (cubed)
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 eggs (hard-boiled and cubed)
• 1/2 cup parsley or dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Sour cream (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Ukrainian Green Borscht is how flexible it can be. Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add more greens: Sneak in more leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it spicier: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your borscht a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for different protein options, try adding chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian twist.
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to switch up the herbs—fresh basil or cilantro can also add unique flavors!

How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring your chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, add in the cubed potatoes. Reducing the heat to medium-low, cook them for about 15 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. This step forms the base of your soup and ensures that every spoonful is comforting.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While your potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and grated carrot, cooking them while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to your borscht.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your potatoes are ready, carefully add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture into the pot. Then toss in cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking everything together for another 5-7 minutes until all veggies are tender. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper; this is where you can adjust flavors according to your taste.

Step 4: Finish with Flavor

Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with the cubed hard-boiled eggs and chopped parsley or dill. This gives your soup that delightful zing! Remove from heat right after mixing everything well; serving hot will maximize those fresh flavors.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Ladle your beautiful Ukrainian Green Borscht into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy every slurp of this refreshing soup that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht

Making the perfect Ukrainian Green Borscht is all about balance and freshness, so here are some pro tips to ensure your soup shines!

• Use Fresh Greens: Opt for fresh spinach and herbs whenever possible. Fresh greens not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color that makes the dish visually appealing.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors in your borscht. It adds a refreshing zing that balances the earthiness of the vegetables and enhances the overall taste.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other seasonal greens like beet greens or Swiss chard. This allows you to tailor the soup to your taste and incorporate whatever is fresh and available!

• Season as You Go: Taste your soup at different stages of cooking and adjust the seasoning accordingly. This will help achieve a well-rounded flavor in every spoonful.

• Let it Sit Before Serving: If time allows, let your borscht rest for a bit before serving. This can deepen the flavors as they meld together beautifully, making each bowl even more delicious.

How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht

When it comes to serving Ukrainian Green Borscht, presentation can elevate your meal from simple to spectacular! Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some additional parsley or dill on top just before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Sour Cream Swirl: Add a dollop of sour cream right in the center of each bowl for a creamy contrast that complements the soup’s tanginess.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The hearty texture pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of the borscht.
• Salad with Feta: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbly feta cheese provides a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the soup.
• Potato Pancakes (Deruny): These crispy potato pancakes make a delightful side; their crunchy exterior contrasts nicely with the soft borscht.
• Pickled Vegetables: A small plate of pickled vegetables adds tang and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile while offering a delightful textural contrast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your delicious Ukrainian Green Borscht! Enjoy every soothing spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes amazing but also keeps well, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious borscht.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
• Avoid adding sour cream until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the borscht to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ukrainian Green Borscht that might help you out!

Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and this recipe will be entirely vegetarian while still being delicious.

How long does Ukrainian Green Borscht last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Ukrainian Green Borscht can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Ukrainian Green Borscht?

This vibrant soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish!

Can I add other greens to my Ukrainian Green Borscht?

Yes! Feel free to add other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrition and flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this delightful Ukrainian Green Borscht! It’s such a lovely way to enjoy fresh summer flavors while nourishing your body. This recipe is not just about filling your belly; it’s about sharing warmth and comfort with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!