Ukrainian borscht

Ukrainian Borscht with Meat - A Classic and Comforting Recipe

If you are looking for a rich, aromatic soup full of history, look no further! Ukrainian borscht is an excellent choice, combining simple ingredients with complex flavors. This recipe, rich in meat and vegetables, is a traditional version that will delight you with every spoonful. Moreover, borscht is a symbol of hospitality and family meals, present in every corner of the world where Ukrainian is spoken.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 800 g beef (preferably with bone for a deep flavor)
- 4 l water
- 300 g cabbage (preferably fresh, just chopped)
- 2 medium beets (dark red to black)
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled
- 1 large carrot, peeled
- 1 large onion, peeled
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 60 g smoked ham, diced
- 3 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh dill (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by placing the beef in a large pot with 4 liters of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a spatula or spoon. Simmer the meat for about 1.5 hours until it becomes tender.
Useful tips: It is important to use beef with bone, as this will add a rich and deep flavor to the soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool on a wooden board. Strain the broth and put it back in the pot. Add the peeled and diced potatoes. Boil for 15 minutes.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a separate pan, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté on low heat until it becomes translucent, then add the grated carrot. Continue sautéing for 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This technique will intensify the flavors and add a depth of flavor to your soups.

4. Combining the ingredients:
Transfer the onion and carrot mixture to the pot with the soup. Let it boil for 10-12 minutes, then add the shredded cabbage. After 5 minutes, add the grated beet. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Finalizing the borscht:
Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Meanwhile, in a mortar, crush the 2 garlic cloves together with the smoked ham, adding a little salt until you obtain a creamy paste. Add this paste to the soup along with the lemon juice, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, cover the pot, and let the soup rest for 3 hours. This step is essential for the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Serving:
When you are ready to serve, pour the hot borscht into bowls. Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top, along with a generous spoonful of sour cream.
Serving suggestion: Ukrainian borscht pairs wonderfully with toasted bread spread with the previously prepared garlic paste. A perfect combination!

Variations and Tricks

- Vegetarian variation: You can replace the meat with mushrooms or unprocessed vegetables, and the meat broth with water or vegetable broth to create a delicious vegan version.
- Garlic paste: Make more garlic paste and use it as an appetizer on toasted bread or as a condiment for other dishes.

Nutritional Benefits

Ukrainian borscht is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Beef provides essential proteins, and beets are known for their antioxidant properties. Additionally, consuming fresh herbs adds a boost of vitamins, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken for this borscht?
Yes, you can use chicken instead of beef. The cooking time will be shorter, about 30-40 minutes.

How long can I keep the borscht?
Borscht keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

Is it necessary to let the borscht sit for a few hours after preparation?
Yes, letting the borscht rest allows the flavors to develop and become more intense, providing a more enjoyable culinary experience.

Conclusion

Preparing Ukrainian borscht is a true art that combines tradition with authentic taste. Whether you choose to enjoy it on a cool day or at a festive meal, this meat borscht will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 800 g beef 4 l water 300 g cabbage 2 medium-sized beetroots of good quality (should be dark red to black) cooked and peeled 6 medium-sized potatoes peeled 1 carrot peeled 1 large onion peeled 3 lemon juice 2 tablespoons tomato paste 60 g smoked bacon 3 tablespoons oil salt to taste pepper to taste bay leaf dill (optional) parsley (optional)

 Tags:  ukrainian borscht