Ukrainian Green Borscht

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant meal that brings a taste of summer to the table, look no further than this Ukrainian Green Borscht! This delightful soup is not only packed with wholesome greens but also offers a delicious balance of flavors. It has become one of my favorite recipes for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it’s both comforting and nourishing.

What makes this Ukrainian Green Borscht even more special is its versatility. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, it always impresses. Plus, the bright green color and fresh ingredients make it an instant hit with everyone, from kids to adults!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and quick cooking times, this recipe fits perfectly into any schedule.
• Family-friendly: The mild flavors and lovely texture make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy goodness: Packed with spinach, zucchini, and other veggies, it’s a nutrient-rich option that feels good to eat.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously refreshing: The addition of lemon juice adds a bright zing that elevates the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Ukrainian Green Borscht is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you need:

• 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 c parsley or dill (chopped)
• salt, pepper to taste
• sour cream (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Ukrainian Green Borscht is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add different greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a new twist!
• Mix in other vegetables: Throw in some peas or diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for an exciting flavor boost.
• Make it vegan: Swap out the eggs for chickpeas for added protein while keeping it plant-based.

How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring your chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes. Reducing the heat to medium-low, let them cook for about 15 minutes. This step is important because tender potatoes form the comforting 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 onions and grated carrots, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until they soften. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now that your potatoes are tender, carefully add the sautéed onion-carrot mixture along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach into the pot. Continue cooking everything together for another 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Freshness

Stir in lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and chopped parsley or dill before removing from heat. The lemon juice not only brightens up the dish but also adds that signature tanginess that makes Ukrainian Green Borscht so special!

Step 5: Serve Up Warm

Serve your borscht immediately with a generous dollop of sour cream on top. Enjoy each spoonful of this vibrant soup as it warms your heart and nourishes your body!

This delightful dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht

Making Ukrainian Green Borscht is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your soup to perfection!

• Use fresh greens: Opting for fresh spinach and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color to your borscht, making it visually appealing and nutritious.

• Adjust the acidity: Balancing the lemon juice according to your taste preference can transform the soup. A little more adds brightness, while less keeps it mellow.

• Perfect hard-boiled eggs: To achieve perfectly hard-boiled eggs, simmer them for about 9-12 minutes. This ensures they’re cooked through without being overdone or rubbery.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like dill or black pepper for an extra layer of flavor. These can enhance the authenticity of your borscht and cater to your personal taste.

• Let it rest: Allowing your borscht to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just cover it and give it a moment before serving!

How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht

Serving Ukrainian Green Borscht can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can make this dish even more inviting for your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill on top not only brightens the bowl but also complements the greens in the soup wonderfully.
• Sour cream dollop: A generous spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the acidity from the lemon juice perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a bit more zest if they desire!

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your borscht. It adds a satisfying texture and helps soak up all that delicious broth.
• Potato pancakes (deruny): These crispy delights provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the soup, making them an excellent pairing.
• Pickled vegetables: A small plate of pickled cucumbers or beets pairs wonderfully with borscht, adding a tangy crunch that complements the flavors of the soup.
• Salad with vinaigrette: A fresh salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can brighten up your meal and offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the borscht.

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Ukrainian Green Borscht! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is not only a delightful dish to serve fresh, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the borscht to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’re adding sour cream, consider serving it on the side to keep it fresh.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down fully before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

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

Can I use other greens instead of spinach in Ukrainian Green Borscht?

Yes! While spinach is traditional, you can substitute with Swiss chard or kale for a different flavor and texture.

How long does Ukrainian Green Borscht last in the fridge?

Ukrainian Green Borscht can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container.

Is Ukrainian Green Borscht suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This recipe uses vegetable broth and is packed with nutritious vegetables, making it a delicious vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Ukrainian Green Borscht?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For added richness, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream.

Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Ukrainian Green Borscht brightens your table as much as it does mine! It’s a comforting dish that brings together fresh ingredients and hearty flavors. Enjoy making this vibrant soup, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!