Romanian bors (fasting)

Romanian Lent Bors - A Vegetable Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to your kitchen! Today, I invite you to discover together the delicious and comforting recipe for Romanian lent bors. This soup is not just a filling meal but also a feast of flavors and colors, perfect for days when we want to feel good without consuming animal products. Bors has a long tradition in Romanian gastronomy, known for its pleasant acidity and being a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

- 500 g chopped vegetable mix (frozen) or fresh vegetables, as preferred
- 50 g chopped bell pepper (frozen) or fresh
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large potato
- 1.5 l homemade bors
- 3 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried or fresh lovage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3-4 sour peppers, for added flavor

Ingredient Details:

- Vegetable mix: In these modern times, many of us choose the convenience of frozen vegetables. They retain most of the nutrients and are perfect for our bors. If you prefer fresh vegetables, use carrots, celery, zucchini, and others to taste.
- Homemade bors: It is essential to give the soup that authentic taste. If you have time, prepare it at home from a natural fermentation of grains. Alternatively, a good quality store-bought bors will do the trick.
- Lovage: This aromatic plant is a staple in Romanian bors. It provides an unmistakable flavor and also has excellent digestive properties.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing and peeling the onion and potato. Chop the onion finely and cut the potato into large cubes. If using fresh vegetables, peel and chop them now.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and heat them over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes golden and translucent. This step is essential to bring the flavors to life.

3. Adding the vegetables: Now it’s time to add the chopped vegetable mix (or fresh vegetables) and the potato cubes. Mix well and let them sauté together for 2-3 minutes.

4. Boiling the bors: Pour the 1.5 liters of water over the vegetables and add a little salt. Let it simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes, covering the pot with a lid. You will notice how the aroma of the vegetables will blend, forming a delicious base for your soup.

5. Preparing the bors: While the vegetables are boiling, place the bors along with the chopped lovage in a separate pot and bring it to a boil. Once the bors is boiling, carefully pour it into the pot with the soup. This is the step that will give the soup that appreciated sour taste.

6. Finalizing the soup: Let it boil for another 10 minutes over low heat. This is the moment to taste and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper to your liking.

7. Serving: Once the soup is ready, pour it into a serving bowl and add whole sour peppers for extra flavor and a colorful touch. Sprinkle some fresh lovage on top to beautify the presentation.

Serving Suggestions:

Lent bors is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh or stone-baked bread. If you want to go further, try pairing it with a pickled salad or a portion of warm polenta. A refreshing drink, such as a fruit compote, will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Information:

This lent bors is an excellent nutritional choice. It is low in calories, having about 80-100 calories per serving, thanks to the fiber-rich vegetables. Additionally, it is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.

Possible Variations:

To customize the recipe, you can add different vegetables, such as zucchini, cauliflower, or peas. Also, for an extra protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or beans. This will turn the soup into an even heartier meal, ideal for those looking for a higher intake of plant-based proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use store-bought bors?
Yes, store-bought bors is a good alternative; make sure to choose a quality one without additives.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add freshly chopped hot pepper or chili flakes during cooking.

3. How long does the bors keep in the fridge?
Lent bors keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated without any problem.

I hope this recipe for Romanian lent bors becomes one of your favorites. It is simple, healthy, and full of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g mixed chopped vegetables (frozen) 50 g chopped bell pepper (frozen) 1 onion 1 potato 1.5 l homemade borscht 3 tablespoons oil 2 teaspoons chopped lovage (dried) salt, pepper 3-4 sour peppers

 Tags:  borscht soup fasting dishes