Bean soup

Bean Borscht – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavors and Warmth

When it comes to comfort food, bean borscht tops the list. This recipe is not only a delicious choice but also a window into a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. Whether served on a chilly winter day or at a family gathering, bean borscht always brings a touch of joy.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 g dry beans
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 2 tablespoons of preserved vegetables (autumn)
- A handful of sorrel (fresh or frozen)
- A handful of parsley (fresh or frozen)
- A handful of dill (fresh or frozen)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 200 ml tomato juice
- Fresh borscht, to taste
- Thin noodles, as preferred (about 100 g)

Preparation of bean borscht:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the dry beans well under cold water. Then, blanch them in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. This is an important step, as it helps remove impurities and unwanted substances. After blanching, drain the beans and set them aside.

2. Cooking the beans: In a large pot, add the blanched beans, dried thyme, and enough water to cover the beans by a few centimeters. Allow to boil over medium heat. It is recommended to remove the foam that forms on the surface for a cleaner and tastier borscht.

3. Adding the vegetables: After about 20 minutes of boiling, add the chopped onion, carrot, and parsley root. These vegetables not only add flavor but also a boost of nutrients. Let everything simmer together for another 15 minutes.

4. Adding preserved vegetables and greens: Once the beans are well cooked, add the two tablespoons of preserved vegetables, sorrel, and dill. If using frozen vegetables, there is no need to thaw them before adding them to the pot. Continue to boil the borscht for a few more minutes.

5. Adding tomato juice and borscht: Now it’s time to add the tomato juice. This will enrich the flavor of the borscht and give it a beautiful color. After adding the tomato juice, adjust with fresh borscht to taste. It is important to adjust the acidity of the borscht according to your preferences.

6. Noodles: After adding the borscht, let it come to a boil, then add the thin noodles. Be careful not to overcook them, so they don’t become mushy. Just a few minutes are enough to achieve the perfect texture.

7. Finalizing: Finally, adjust the salt and let the borscht simmer with the noodles for 5-10 minutes. The borscht is ready when the noodles are well cooked and the flavors have blended perfectly.

8. Serving: Bean borscht is served hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, with a side of hot peppers. This addition will provide a spicy and vibrant flavor, perfect for those who love hot peppers.

Helpful tips:

- Ingredients: Make sure the beans are of good quality. You can use white or red beans, depending on your preferences. Additionally, preserved vegetables can be replaced with fresh vegetables if you have them on hand.

- Borscht: Fresh borscht is essential for an authentic taste. You can make borscht at home from beet stems and water, letting it ferment for a few days.

- Variations: If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a finely chopped hot pepper during boiling. You can also replace the noodles with rice or whole grain pasta for a healthier option.

- Calories and nutritional benefits: Bean borscht is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. A serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used, making it a healthy choice for a nutritious meal.

- Pairings: This borscht pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also accompany the meal with a dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans? Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove the salt and preservatives.

2. How can I store the borscht? The borscht keeps very well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in small portions to enjoy later.

3. Is the borscht vegan? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, making it an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet.

4. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, celery, or even potatoes, depending on your preferences.

So, I invite you to try this bean borscht recipe, enjoy its warm and comforting flavors, and share your meal with loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 300 g beans, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, preserved vegetables (from autumn), lamb's quarters, parsley, dill, salt, dried garden thyme, fresh borscht, 200 ml tomato juice, thin noodles

 Tags:  bean soup