Ukrainian Green Borscht

If you’re looking for a refreshing and nourishing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer, then Ukrainian Green Borscht is just what you need! This delightful soup is packed with vibrant greens and a hint of zesty lemon, making it a standout option for lunch or dinner. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something light yet satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this Ukrainian Green Borscht is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients that you can find in your pantry or local market, it quickly transforms into a comforting bowl of goodness. Each spoonful is a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic days when time is tight.
• Packed with Nutrition: Full of wholesome veggies like spinach and zucchini, it’s not just delicious; it’s also good for you!
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot or cold, with a dollop of sour cream, or on its own—it’s delicious every way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully in this delightful 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 (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Ukrainian Green Borscht is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add More Greens: Toss in additional greens like kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
• Swap the Protein: If eggs aren’t your thing, try adding chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein option.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some freshly cracked black pepper if you like a little heat in your soup.
• Try Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil to give the dish your unique twist.

How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring your chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes. Reducing the heat to medium-low is important here; let them cook gently for about 15 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy. This step sets the foundation for our soup!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and grated carrot, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our borscht.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are cooked through, add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture into the pot along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. At this stage, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to enhance those fresh flavors.

Step 4: Finish Off With Lemon & Herbs

Now it’s time to brighten things up! Stir in the lemon juice along with the cubed eggs and chopped parsley. Mixing these ingredients ensures that every bite has that lovely zesty flavor we adore in Ukrainian Green Borscht.

Step 5: Serve Up Warm

Remove your pot from heat and ladle out generous portions into bowls. Don’t forget to top each serving with a dollop of sour cream—it adds such creaminess! Serve immediately and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful dish.

Enjoy making this healthy Ukrainian Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s sure to become a favorite recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Ukrainian Green Borscht

Making Ukrainian Green Borscht is a delightful culinary adventure that’s even better with a few handy tips!

• Choose Fresh Greens: Always opt for the freshest spinach and herbs you can find. Fresh greens not only enhance the flavor but also provide vibrant color and essential nutrients.

• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a richer taste, consider using homemade broth or adding a bit of miso paste for an umami boost. This will elevate the dish’s depth and make it even heartier.

• Perfectly Cooked Eggs: For hard-boiled eggs, make sure to cook them just right—about 9-12 minutes in boiling water usually does the trick. This prevents overcooking, which can lead to a greenish yolk and a rubbery texture.

• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley and dill are traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro or chives. They can add a unique twist that complements the soup beautifully.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the borscht to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together. It’s worth the wait for an even tastier bowl!

How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht

Serving Ukrainian Green Borscht is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors that enhance this refreshing soup.

Garnishes

• Dollop of Sour Cream: A classic touch, adding sour cream not only makes the borscht creamy but also balances out the acidity from the lemon juice.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling extra chopped parsley or dill on top adds freshness and visual appeal, making each bowl look vibrant.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add an extra splash of citrus if they desire, enhancing the soup’s flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your borscht. It adds a satisfying crunch and complements the soup’s texture beautifully.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus can serve as a savory side that pairs well with the fresh flavors of your borscht.
• Potato Pancakes (Deruny): These crispy delights are made from grated potatoes and are perfect for soaking up every last drop of borscht while adding a delightful contrast in texture.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and herbs offers a refreshing crunch that balances nicely with the warm soup, making it an ideal accompaniment.

Enjoy your culinary journey with Ukrainian Green Borscht — it’s not just food; it’s an experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is an excellent choice for meal prep! Its vibrant flavors only get better after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the borscht to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you added sour cream, consider storing it separately to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen borscht overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, using a microwave-safe bowl and covering it loosely.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ukrainian Green Borscht that may help you as you prepare this delightful dish!

Can I use different greens in Ukrainian Green Borscht?

Absolutely! If you don’t have spinach, feel free to substitute with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Each will add its unique flavor and nutrition!

How do I make a vegetarian version of Ukrainian Green Borscht?

This recipe is already vegetarian when you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Just ensure all your ingredients are plant-based!

Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. The flavors deepen when stored overnight in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next day.

What is typically served with Ukrainian Green Borscht?

Traditionally, it’s served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs on top. Crusty bread or rye bread pairs wonderfully too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Ukrainian Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or dinner, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Happy cooking!