
Quick Weeknights
Quick Weeknights · Russian
A vibrant and hearty beet soup that balances sweetness and earthy undertones with a satisfying sour kick.
Why This Works
The lemon juice is essential to keep the beet flavor bright rather than muddy.
The Upgrade
Roast the beets in foil before grating them to intensify their natural sugars.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueAdd the garlic at the very end of the cooking process to ensure its aroma remains punchy and fresh.
Total time including resting: 45 min
In a large pot, bring beef stock to a boil over medium-high heat.
5 minAdd potatoes and cook until just tender before adding the shredded cabbage.
10 minIn a separate pan, sauté beets and carrots in oil until softened and fragrant.
7 minStir the tomato paste into the vegetable mixture, coating them evenly.
2 minTransfer the vegetable mixture into the soup pot, bringing it back to a gentle simmer.
5 minAdd minced garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings, cooking until the flavors meld.
5 minRemove from heat, let it sit for a few minutes to deepen the color, and serve.
5 minFinish each bowl with a large dollop of sour cream and fresh parsley.
1 minWine Pairing
Gamay
Red Wine
The BottleMarcel Lapierre Morgon
The bright acidity and low tannins of a top-tier Morgon mirror the earthy sweetness of the beets. Its inherent red-fruit profile manages the soup's sour tang without clashing.
210
calories
6g
protein
38g
carbs
4g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Dark rye bread provides a firm, earthy texture that stands up to the acidity of the beet soup.
Combine softened butter, chives, parsley, and salt in a small bowl until fully integrated.
Toast pumpernickel slices until crisp and aromatic.
Immediately spread herb butter generously over warm bread.
Serve immediately to maintain the contrast between the hot bread and cool butter.
Side Dish
A dollop of sour cream mixed with fresh dill adds a cooling, creamy element to balance the hot broth.
In a chilled bowl, combine sour cream, fresh dill, and grated garlic.
Whisk in the lemon juice and salt until smooth and uniform.
Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow the garlic intensity to mellow.
Finish with a light sprinkle of fresh dill before garnishing the bowl of Borsch.
Member Reviews
Rate this recipe
Really enjoyed this. I'd add a touch more acid next time, but very solid.
Cooked it for guests over the weekend — everyone wanted the recipe.
Perfect Russian flavors. Followed it step by step and it was flawless.
Very approachable even for a beginner. Turned out great.
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