Hearty Russian Beef Borscht Recipe

Russian Delight: Hearty Beef Borscht

Embrace the warm, rustic flavors of Russia with a traditional Beef Borscht, a cherished staple of Eastern European cuisine. This dish combines the earthiness of beets with the robust flavors of beef, culminating in a soup that is not just comforting, but also a vibrant splash of color in a bowl. As you simmer the rich combination of fresh vegetables and beef, the sweet, tangy, and savory notes unite, embodying the essence of Russian dining. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, sure to be the highlight of your culinary travels to Russia, right in your own home.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Ingredients

• Beef, 300 grams
• Beets, 200 grams
• Cabbage, 150 grams
• Potatoes, 200 grams
• Carrots, 100 grams
• Onion, 1 medium (about 100 grams)
• Garlic, 2 cloves
• Tomatoes, 100 grams (or 3 tablespoons of tomato paste)
• Vegetable oil, 30 ml
• Bay leaves, 2
• Dill, a small bunch
• Sour cream, 60 ml (for serving)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Method

• In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef, and sear on all sides for about 5 minutes until browned.
• Add 1 liter of water to the pot along with the bay leaves, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 1.5 hours, occasionally skimming any foam.
• While the beef is cooking, peel and grate the beets, and dice the potatoes and carrots. Shred the cabbage finely.
• In a separate skillet, heat a little oil and sauté the beets until slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes or tomato paste to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes.
• Once the beef is tender, add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Cook for 10 minutes.
• Add the sautéed beets, cabbage, and chopped onion to the pot. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
• Finely mince the garlic and add to the soup along with the chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.
• Allow the soup to rest for about 10 minutes. Serve hot, with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Tips

• For a more pronounced flavor, let the borscht rest overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld wonderfully.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste with more dill or a splash of vinegar for added tanginess.

Nutritional Information