Spinach soup with borscht

Spinach Soup with Borscht - a Quick and Healthy Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Spinach soup with borscht is a classic recipe, full of freshness and flavor, perfectly blending the slightly bitter taste of spinach with the acidity of borscht. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also extremely nutritious, being an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, while borscht adds a touch of freshness and a unique taste. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious spinach soup!

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh spinach, cleaned and chopped
- 1 head of garlic (about 5-6 cloves)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 eggs
- 300 g sour cream
- 1 liter homemade borscht (or store-bought)
- 1 cup of rice
- Salt, to taste

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the spinach. Remove the thick stems and wash the leaves under cold running water. It is important to use fresh spinach, as it retains its nutrients and flavor better. Peel and crush or finely chop the garlic, depending on your preference.

2. Sautéing the garlic
In a large pot, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.

3. Adding the spinach
Add the cleaned spinach to the pot, stirring constantly. Let it sauté for 3-4 minutes until it wilts and reduces in volume. This is when the flavors combine and the spinach reveals its delicious taste.

4. Boiling the soup
Add 1 liter of water to the pot, along with salt to taste. Let the soup boil for about 10 minutes. At this stage, it is important to ensure that the spinach is fully cooked and the flavors have concentrated.

5. Adding the rice
After the soup has boiled for 10 minutes, add the rinsed rice. Let it cook for another 7-8 minutes until the rice is done. If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add an extra cup of water.

6. Incorporating the borscht
Once the rice is cooked, add the borscht. Let the soup come to a boil twice, then turn off the heat. This gives the soup a characteristic sour taste and a hint of freshness.

7. Preparing the egg and sour cream mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs well with the sour cream. It is important for the mixture to be smooth to avoid lumps in the soup.

8. Finishing the soup
After the soup has cooled slightly, add the egg and sour cream mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. The soup is now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions and variations

Spinach soup with borscht can be enjoyed both hot and cold, making it an excellent option for any season. It can be served with a slice of whole-grain bread or crispy croutons. Additionally, you can add a pinch of freshly ground pepper or even a splash of lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness.

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, you can try adding other vegetables, such as grated carrots or diced potatoes, for added texture. Another option is to replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier variant.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can spinach soup be stored?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure it is well sealed in an airtight container.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative! Make sure to thaw it and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.

3. Is it possible to make the soup spicier?
Of course! You can add a bit of fresh chili pepper or chili flakes to give it a spicy kick.

Nutritional benefits

Spinach soup with borscht is a healthy choice due to its rich nutrient content. Spinach is an excellent source of antioxidants, which protect the body from free radicals. Additionally, it is low in calories, containing about 50-70 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

By enjoying this soup, you not only savor a tasty dish but also provide your body with an important intake of vitamins and minerals. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones to bring a touch of health and good cheer to every meal!