Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as vibrant in color as it is in flavor, let me introduce you to Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup). This lovely soup is a delightful blend of tangy greens and fresh vegetables, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home after a long day or hosting family and friends for a gathering, this soup will surely impress and satisfy.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can enjoy it hot on chilly days or cold during warm weather. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this delicious green borscht, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the bright flavors and engaging textures.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prep it ahead of time!
• Healthy goodness: Packed with greens and veggies, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot or chilled, and customize your toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. Each one plays a key role in the vibrant flavor profile of Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup), so make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

For the Soup Base:

• 3-4 medium potatoes
• 1 large carrot
• 1 small onion (or half of the medium)
• 10 sorrel leaves or chopped spinach + 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)

For Serving:

• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• ½ hard boiled egg (for serving)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about making Green Borscht is how flexible the recipe can be! Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your personal preferences.

• Swap the greens: If sorrel isn’t available, try using baby spinach or even kale for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it heartier: Add cooked beans or lentils for added protein – they pair wonderfully with the flavors!
• Spice it up: For those who like a kick, add some red pepper flakes while cooking!

How to Make Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by cubing your carrots and potatoes. Dice the onions into small pieces. Chop the sorrel and dill finely and set them aside. Preparing your ingredients not only makes cooking smoother but also ensures each component contributes its full flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat ghee butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent—about 3 minutes—stirring often. Then toss in the carrots and sauté for another 3 minutes. Cooking these vegetables first releases their natural sweetness which adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Build Your Broth

Pour in the filtered water along with cubed potatoes, bay leaves, and vegetable bouillon base. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until all vegetables are tender. This step is crucial as it creates a rich broth infused with all those lovely flavors.

Step 4: Add Greens

Once your vegetables are cooked through, stir in the chopped sorrel and dill. Cover again and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. If you’re using spinach instead of sorrel, mix in half a cup along with a tablespoon of lemon juice during this step for that zesty touch.

Step 5: Serve Up

Ladle your vibrant green borscht into bowls. Top each serving with chopped or halved boiled egg and finish with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. The combination of textures—smooth broth with hearty veggies—is simply divine!

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup)

Making a delicious green borscht is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly!

• Choose fresh greens: Fresh sorrel or spinach not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the soup’s flavor. The fresher the greens, the better the taste and nutritional benefits!
• Adjust acidity to taste: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of lemon juice added if you’re substituting sorrel with spinach. This adjustment allows you to control the tartness of your borscht.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your borscht to sit for at least 10 minutes after adding the greens allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish.
• Experiment with herbs: While dill is traditional, feel free to add other herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten up the soup and make it even more aromatic.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The borscht will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

How to Serve Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup)

Serving green borscht is just as delightful as making it! Presenting this vibrant soup in an appealing way can enhance its charm and make it an inviting centerpiece at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill: A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill adds a burst of color and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sour cream dollop: A generous dollop of sour cream not only adds creaminess but balances the soup’s tartness with its rich texture.
• Chopped hard-boiled egg: Adding chopped or halved hard-boiled eggs provides a nice protein boost and makes for a hearty finish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with green borscht, allowing you to soak up every last drop of this delicious soup.
• Pickled vegetables: Serve alongside pickled cucumbers or radishes for a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.
• Potato pancakes (deruny): These crispy delights are a classic Ukrainian side that complements green borscht wonderfully, adding texture and a satisfying bite.
• Salad with vinaigrette: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and brightness to your meal, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

Enjoy your green borscht journey! Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring every spoonful on your own, this delightful soup is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Borscht recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and the flavors only get better after a day or two. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled borscht in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Avoid adding sour cream or eggs until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
• You can add a splash of water if it thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making Green Borscht!

Can I use spinach instead of sorrel in Green Borscht?

Absolutely! If you can’t find sorrel, using chopped spinach along with a tablespoon of lemon juice works beautifully. This will give you that delightful tanginess that makes this soup special.

How long does Green Borscht stay fresh in the fridge?

Green Borscht can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just ensure it’s kept in an airtight container. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious!

Is Green Borscht healthy?

Yes! Green Borscht is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens. It’s a light yet filling option that’s perfect for a wholesome meal.

Can I make Green Borscht vegan?

Certainly! Replace the ghee butter with olive oil and omit the egg and sour cream toppings. You can enhance flavor by adding extra herbs or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.

What do I serve with Green Borscht?

This soup is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For an added touch, top with fresh dill or chives!

Final Thoughts

I’m so glad you took the time to explore this delicious recipe for Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup). It’s not just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl! Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, I hope it brings warmth and joy to your table. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with this refreshing dish; I’d love to hear how your version turns out. Happy cooking!