Why Make This Recipe
Green Borscht is a refreshing and nutritious soup that is perfect for any season. This Ukrainian dish is packed with healthy greens and vegetables, making it a great option for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s simple to make and tastes delicious. Whether you’re familiar with borscht or trying it for the first time, this recipe will charm your taste buds.
How to Make Green Borscht
Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 small onion (or half of a medium one)
- 10 sorrel leaves or chopped spinach with lemon (*see notes below)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon ghee butter or olive oil
- 4 cups filtered water
- 2 teaspoons "Better than bouillon" (vegetable flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (for serving)
- ½ hard-boiled egg (for serving)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for serving)
Directions:
- Start by cubing the carrots and potatoes. Dice the onions. Chop the sorrel and dill finely, and set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat the ghee butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring often.
- Add the carrots and continue to cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the water and add the cubed potatoes, bay leaves, and bouillon base. Bring to a boil, then cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fully cooked.
- Add the chopped sorrel and dill to the pot. Stir well, cover again, and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. If you’re not using sorrel, replace it with ½ cup of chopped spinach and a tablespoon of lemon juice instead.
- Serve the borscht with a halved boiled egg and a dollop of sour cream on top.
How to Serve Green Borscht
Serve Green Borscht hot, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper and a generous dollop of sour cream. The combination of the creamy sour cream and the fresh greens makes each bite a delight. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade rolls for a complete meal.
How to Store Green Borscht
To store Green Borscht, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Green Borscht
- For the best taste, try to use fresh sorrel if you can find it. Fresh greens really elevate the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. It’s best to start with less and add more as needed.
- If you want a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of it before adding the chopped greens.
Variation
If you’re looking for a variation, consider adding other vegetables like peas or green beans to boost the nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs such as parsley or chives.
FAQs
1. Can I make Green Borscht in advance?
Yes, you can make it in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use spinach instead of sorrel?
Yes, you can use chopped spinach with a tablespoon of lemon juice as a substitute for sorrel. This will give a similar taste profile.
3. Is Green Borscht vegetarian?
Yes, this version of Green Borscht is vegetarian. You can customize it further by ensuring all ingredients are free from animal products.
