Today, we will be making my Easy Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe with beef, reminiscent of cherished family traditions. It’s got tender beef, red beets, potatoes, green cabbage, carrots, white onions, garlic, fresh dill weed and a yummy beef broth that’ll make you feel right at home.
I am just going to come out and say it, no matter how many variations I’ve made or tried, my Easy Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe is hands down the absolute best, no comparison! And if you follow my authentic recipe exactly, step by step (you can even use the same exact pots and pans I use) you too, will start making the absolute best Ukrainian borscht!
FUN FACT: I have never met a Ukrainian who has not had Borscht. It’s like an Italian who has never had sauce (or gravy)… that person just does not exist!
What is Borscht (Борщ)?
Ukrainian Borscht is a hearty soup typically made with beetroots and has roots tracing back to Ukraine. It is part of our DNA, our cultural heritage, our traditions.
Its exact origins are a bit murky, but it likely emerged in the 9th century as a way to utilize readily available ingredients like beets, cabbage, and other vegetables.
Over time, different versions of borscht have been shared, with each culture adding its own unique twist, such as the addition of meat, mushrooms, sweet peppers and/or a dollop of sour cream. Today, borscht stands as a beloved staple in Eastern European cuisine, particularly in the slavic countries, celebrated for its vibrant color, rich flavor, and cultural significance.
Health Benefits of Borscht
Borscht is a nutrient-dense dish that offers a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet. Check out the benefits of ingredients I use in my Easy Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe:
- Beets: Beets are rich in essential nutrients like folate, potassium, and vitamin C. They contain nitrates, which may help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance. Beets also contain betalains, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cabbage: Cabbage is low in calories and high in fiber, making it great for digestion and weight management. It’s also packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Carrots: Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. They also contain fiber, potassium, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and well-being.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. They provide energy, support nerve function, and may help regulate blood pressure. However, it’s important to consume them in moderation, especially for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
- Onions: Onions are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. They also contain sulfur compounds that may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Garlic: Rich in allicin, providing antibacterial properties and potential benefits for heart health and immunity.
- Bay leaves: Contain antioxidants and essential oils, aiding digestion and potentially regulating blood sugar levels.
- Dill weed: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, supporting digestion and offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Parsley: Nutrient-dense herb, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health and acting as a natural breath freshener.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Tomatoes also contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Broth: Depending on the type of broth used, it can provide hydration and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. Bone broth, in particular, may contain collagen, which is beneficial for joint health and skin elasticity.
What Does Borscht Taste Like?
Borscht offers a unique umami-rich flavor profile, characterized by its earthy sweetness and subtle tanginess. The beets provide a rich umami base, while the combination of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and onions adds depth and complexity to the broth. You will discover all of these flavors and more in my Easy Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe!
What Type of Meat Can Be Used in Borscht?
The beauty of borscht lies in its versatility, allowing for various meat options to suit individual preferences and dietary restrictions. Pork is a popular choice, bringing its own distinct savory notes to the pot, while still complementing the earthy sweetness of the beets and carrots. For those seeking a lighter alternative, chicken can be used, providing a leaner option without compromising on flavor.
For a truly rustic experience, you can make it with lamb or venison, adding a hearty richness that harkens back to simpler times. Personally, I have only made it with chicken or beef as our family does not eat pork.
When and How to Serve Borscht?
Enjoy borscht for lunch or dinner; it’s even tastier the next day! Typically a lunch dish, it’s also perfect for dinner, paired with boiled potato varenyky (pierogies). Store this Easy Authentic Ukrainian Borscht in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Easy Authentic Traditional Ukrainian Borscht Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the meat in cold water and trim off fat, cut into bite size pieces and place in a large stock pot (or 6qt crock pot) with 15 cups of cold water, 1 medium onion, and 1 Tbsp salt. Cover and bring to a boil. NOTE: It's important to cover the pot in order for meat to really become tender and lock in all of the flavors.Once boiling, lower the heat and gently remove the fat foamy layer. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- In the meantime, wash, peel, grate, and chop all of the veggies.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp avocado oil, swirl to coat. Add beets, vinegar, pinch of salt & pepper. Saute 2-3 minutes then add sugar and tomato paste. Cover and simmer on low heat another 10 minutes until soft, mixing occasionally. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, return heat to medium temperature, add 1 tbsp avocado oil and add onions and carrots. Saute 4-5 minutes or until softened. Add beets back into the skillet, mix to combine and set aside.
- At 30 minute mark, add cubed potatoes and thinly sliced cabbage to the pot. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes.
- Add sauteed vegetables, bay leaves, salt and pepper to taste increase temperature to medium heat and bring to boil. Stir. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Add freshly chopped dill/parsley and garlic. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Did you make this Easy Authentic Traditional Ukrainian Borscht Recipe? If so, be sure to share your feedback and give it a rating 🙂
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Just like my grandmother used to make! Can’t wait to share this with the family!