Ukrainian Green Borscht
If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish to brighten your day, you’ve come to the right place! This Ukrainian Green Borscht is perfect for summer and bursting with healthy greens. It’s not just a soup; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that makes lunch or dinner feel special. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting family gatherings, this recipe will bring smiles all around the table.
One of my favorite things about this Ukrainian Green Borscht is how versatile it is. The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a nourishing meal that’s easy to whip up, yet impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with spinach, zucchini, and other veggies, this soup is a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the colorful presentation and delightful taste of this borscht.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy days.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite greens or add more veggies based on what you have on hand!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this delightful Ukrainian Green Borscht requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s gather everything we need to make this vibrant soup!
For the Soup
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (minced)
- 1 medium carrot (grated on a large grater)
- 3 large potatoes (cubed)
- 4 cups spinach (chopped)
- 1 zucchini (cubed)
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 eggs (hard-boiled and cubed)
- 1/2 cup parsley or dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Sour cream
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! This Ukrainian Green Borscht is flexible enough for you to play around with. Here are some fun variation ideas:
- Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
- Add some protein: For an extra boost, consider adding shredded chicken or chickpeas instead of eggs.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy a little heat in your soup.
- Go vegan: Replace eggs with avocado cubes or omit them altogether for a lighter version.
How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring your chicken broth to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away happily, toss in the cubed potatoes. Reducing the heat to medium-low allows them to cook through without becoming mushy—aim for about 15 minutes here.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
While those potatoes are working their magic, grab a medium non-stick skillet. Heat up your olive oil over medium heat and add the minced onion and grated carrot. Sautéing these until they soften—about 10 minutes—helps release their natural sweetness and adds depth to your borscht.
Step 3: Combine It All
Once your potatoes are tender, gently stir in the sautéed onion and carrot mixture along with the cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking everything together for another 5-7 minutes. This step melds all those beautiful flavors together while keeping those greens vibrant!
Step 4: Finish It Off
Now comes the exciting part! Remove your pot from the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice along with the cubed hard-boiled eggs and freshly chopped parsley. These final touches elevate your borscht with brightness and zest.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Ladle out generous portions into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream. This adds creaminess that beautifully contrasts with the bright flavors of your soup. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty Ukrainian Green Borscht!
Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht
Making a flavorful and healthy Ukrainian Green Borscht is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to help you create the perfect pot of deliciousness.
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Choose fresh greens: Using fresh spinach and herbs will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your borscht. Fresh greens contribute vibrant colors and essential nutrients, making your soup both tasty and wholesome.
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Adjust the acidity: Feel free to modify the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference. This can balance the flavors in your soup, adding brightness without overpowering the other ingredients.
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Experiment with spices: While salt and pepper are essential, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra depth of flavor. These spices can bring a unique twist to your borscht while keeping it exciting and satisfying.
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Use homemade broth: If time allows, make your own chicken or vegetable broth. Homemade broth is often richer in flavor and free from preservatives, resulting in a more delicious soup.
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Serve chilled or warm: Ukrainian Green Borscht is delightful served warm, but it can also be enjoyed chilled on hot summer days. This versatility makes it a fantastic dish for any occasion!
How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht
Serving Ukrainian Green Borscht is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some additional chopped dill or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream not only adds creaminess but also balances the flavors beautifully with its tangy richness.
- Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add extra acidity to their liking if desired.
Side Dishes
- Crusty bread: A slice of warm crusty bread pairs perfectly with Ukrainian Green Borscht. It’s great for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth.
- Cucumber salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and herbs adds a refreshing crunch that complements the soup wonderfully.
- Potato pancakes (deruny): These crispy delights can provide a hearty contrast to the soup’s lush texture, making them a satisfying side option.
- Pickled vegetables: Offering tangy pickled vegetables brings an additional layer of flavor that harmonizes well with the borscht, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Enjoy exploring these tips and serving suggestions as you make your way through this delightful recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Ukrainian Green Borscht is a fantastic choice for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day as the flavors meld, but it’s also easy to store and reheat.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- Be sure to separate any extras like sour cream when storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- Allow the borscht to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Label containers with the date and type of soup.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating
- To reheat from the fridge, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stove or use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about preparing Ukrainian Green Borscht!
Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe already uses vegetable broth, so it’s perfect for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that all your ingredients are plant-based.
What greens can I use in Ukrainian Green Borscht?
While spinach is a key ingredient, you can also experiment with other greens like kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.
How long does Ukrainian Green Borscht last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Ukrainian Green Borscht can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator without losing its delicious flavor.
Is there a way to make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the hard-boiled eggs with additional vegetables or tofu and skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add other vegetables to my Ukrainian Green Borscht?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preferences!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and hearty Ukrainian Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s not just a soup; it’s a comforting bowl of summer goodness that brings warmth and joy. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or dinner, this dish celebrates healthy ingredients and delightful flavors. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!
Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Description
Ukrainian Green Borscht is a vibrant and refreshing summer soup that showcases the delightful flavors of fresh greens and vegetables. This hearty dish combines nourishing spinach, zucchini, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe brings comfort and joy to the table. Whether served warm or chilled, Ukrainian Green Borscht is a versatile option that can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy each spoonful of this deliciously healthy soup!
Ingredients
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (minced)
- 1 medium carrot (grated)
- 3 large potatoes (cubed)
- 4 cups spinach (chopped)
- 1 zucchini (cubed)
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 hard-boiled eggs (cubed)
- 1/2 cup parsley or dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add cubed potatoes and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for about 15 minutes until tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced onion and grated carrot for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Stir sautéed onions and carrots into the pot with potatoes. Add cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and chopped parsley.
- Serve in bowls topped with sour cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 218
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
