beef borscht soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best beef borscht soup recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the rich cultural heritage behind borscht, a beet-based soup that originated in Eastern Europe. This hearty dish has been a staple in many Slavic countries for centuries, and its popularity has spread globally.

As a home cook, I appreciate the versatility of borscht and its ability to adapt to various tastes and dietary needs. In this recipe, I’ll share my take on traditional beef borscht, which I’ve refined over the years to suit my family’s preferences.

The addition of ground beef makes it more substantial and satisfying, while the beets provide a vibrant color and a boost of antioxidants. When I serve this soup at family gatherings or during the cold winter months, everyone raves about its flavor and texture.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, especially when we get to wear our favorite aprons and add a dash of love to the pot. As we sit down to enjoy this nourishing meal together, I feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life – good food, good company, and a warm kitchen.

Beef Borscht Soup

Beef Borscht Soup

4.6 from 1888 votes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring tender beef, beets, and a rich broth. This classic Eastern European dish is perfect for cold weather and family gatherings.

Prep Time25 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef and Broth

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into large chunks
2 medium onions, quartered
4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
4 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into large chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into large chunks
1 head garlic, halved crosswise
2 bay leaves
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp salt

For the Vegetables

2 medium beets, peeled and grated
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium cabbage, thinly shredded
2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Seasoning

2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cups beef broth
2 cups water
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp dried parsley

For Garnish

Sour cream
Fresh dill, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large stockpot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2Add onions, carrots, parsnips, celery, and garlic.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add beef chuck to the pot.
5Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt.
7Stir to combine.
8Pour in beef broth and water.
9Bring to a boil.
10Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
11Skim any foam that rises to the top during cooking.
12Remove beef from the pot and set aside to cool.
13Once cool enough to handle, shred the beef using two forks and discard any large pieces of fat.
14Return shredded beef to the pot.
15Add grated beets, diced potatoes, shredded cabbage, grated carrots, sliced onions, and minced garlic to the pot.
16Stir to combine.
17Add tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, dill, and parsley.
Stir well.
18Bring the soup to a boil.
19Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
20Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
21Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
22Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with sour cream and chopped fresh dill.
23Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Bowls

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother soup, you can puree some of the vegetables before adding them to the pot. To make this recipe in a slow cooker, follow steps 1-3, then cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Beef borscht is a versatile dish that can be served at any occasion, from a family dinner to a large gathering. It can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prepping. When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave until it is hot and bubbly.

You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. This soup can be served with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. It is a dish that my family loves, and I always enjoy making it.

When I have leftover beef borscht, I love to use it as a base for other dishes, such as a hearty stew or a comforting casserole. It is a dish that is both comforting and nourishing, making it a great choice for any occasion. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does and find it to be a comforting and delicious addition to your meal rotation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Borscht Soup

1. What are the key ingredients in beef borscht?

The key ingredients in beef borscht include beef (usually chuck or round), beets, cabbage, carrots, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and various spices such as bay leaves, black pepper, and salt. These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful broth that is both comforting and nourishing.

2. Can I use a different type of meat in beef borscht?

While beef is the traditional choice for borscht, you can use other types of meat such as pork or chicken. The cooking time and technique may need to be adjusted depending on the type of meat you choose. For example, pork may require less cooking time than beef, while chicken may need to be cooked more gently to avoid toughness.

3. How long does it take to cook beef borscht?

Beef borscht typically takes several hours to cook, as the beef needs to be slow-cooked until it is tender. I usually simmer the soup for at least 2-3 hours, but sometimes I let it cook longer if I am not in a hurry. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender and flavorful.

4. Can I make beef borscht in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make beef borscht in a slow cooker. This is a great option if you want to save time and effort. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 8-10 hours. The slow cooker will help to tenderize the beef and infuse the flavors, resulting in a delicious and comforting soup.

5. Is beef borscht healthy?

Beef borscht can be a healthy option, as it is packed with essential nutrients from the variety of vegetables used. The beets, cabbage, and carrots provide vitamins and minerals, while the beef offers a good source of protein. However, the nutritional value can vary depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. To make it healthier, you can use leaner cuts of beef, reduce the amount of salt, and add more vegetables.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts