Ukrainian Green Borscht

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish to brighten up your summer days, you’ve come to the right place! Ukrainian Green Borscht is a delightful soup that’s not only packed with healthy greens but also offers a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of sunny afternoons spent with family, gathering around the table for a comforting bowl of goodness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone.

As the weather warms up, I love serving this soup chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the sunshine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with spinach, zucchini, and potatoes, this soup is loaded with nutrients and flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish! The combination of fresh ingredients makes it appealing for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it warm or cold; it’s delicious either way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple ingredients that bring this Ukrainian Green Borscht to life. These wholesome items are easy to find and full of flavor!

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 topping)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add more greens: Boost the nutritional value by adding kale or Swiss chard alongside the spinach.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions.
• Make it vegan: Omit the eggs and replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative for a totally vegan version.
• Switch the broth: Try using homemade vegetable broth for an even richer flavor profile.

How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring your chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Add the cubed potatoes and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let them cook for about 15 minutes until tender. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While your potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and grated carrot. Sauté for about 10 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your borscht.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are tender, add in the sautéed onion and carrot mixture along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Stir everything together and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until all the veggies are cooked through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste!

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Remove your pot from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, cubed eggs, and chopped parsley or dill. These final additions give your Ukrainian Green Borscht its signature zesty flavor and freshness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Ladle your vibrant borscht into bowls while it’s still warm. Top each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream for added richness. Enjoy every spoonful as you savor this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht

Creating a delicious Ukrainian Green Borscht is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring the perfect texture. Here are some tips to help you make this vibrant soup even more delightful!

• Choose fresh greens: Using fresh spinach and herbs enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your borscht, making it taste even better.
• Sauté for depth: Sautéing the onions and carrots not only softens them but also brings out their natural sweetness, adding a richer flavor to your soup.
• Adjust acidity: If you prefer a tangier taste, feel free to add a bit more lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar. This brightens up the dish and balances the flavors.
• Customize with veggies: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional vegetables like kale or chard. They not only contribute unique textures but also boost the nutrient profile of your borscht.
• Let it rest: For the best flavor, allow your borscht to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time lets all the ingredients meld beautifully.

How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht

Serving Ukrainian Green Borscht can be both fun and creative! You can present it in various ways that highlight its beautiful color and inviting aromas.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill on top adds freshness and color, making your borscht visually appealing.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream not only adds creaminess but also provides a nice contrast to the soup’s vibrant flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of freshly baked crusty bread pairs perfectly with borscht, allowing you to soak up every last drop of this flavorful soup.
• Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad offers a refreshing crunch that complements the warm soup beautifully.
• Pirozhki (savory pastries): These delightful pastries filled with vegetables or grains make for a hearty side that’s loved by many.
• Pickled vegetables: Serving pickled beets or cucumbers alongside adds a tangy bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements in your soup.

Enjoy making this Ukrainian Green Borscht! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, health, and comfort—perfect for any summer day.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is perfect for meal prep! Its vibrant flavors only get better the longer they sit, making it an excellent choice for those busy days when you want something wholesome and delicious ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up.

Freezing

• To freeze, pour the cooled borscht into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.
• Label the containers with the date and consider using within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen borscht overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat until it’s hot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Ukrainian Green Borscht!

Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of this classic soup.

How long does Ukrainian Green Borscht last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Ukrainian Green Borscht will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Ukrainian Green Borscht?

This vibrant soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess that complements the flavors perfectly!

Is Ukrainian Green Borscht good for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep since its flavors deepen over time. It’s great to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Ukrainian Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s not just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl filled with vibrant greens and comforting flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny summer day or cozying up on a chilly evening, this soup is sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy cooking!