Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

Ukrainian Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is a vibrant, nutritious soup that embodies the essence of summer. This dish is packed with fresh greens, making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a healthy family meal, this soup is sure to impress. Its unique blend of flavors and textures sets it apart, allowing you to savor the taste of Ukrainian cuisine in every spoonful.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This soup uses wholesome greens and vegetables, ensuring each bowl is packed with nutrients.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for any season.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to introduce kids to healthy eating without compromising on flavor.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of ingredients delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium non-stick skillet
• Grater
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients comfortably.
• Medium non-stick skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables without sticking and burning.
• Grater: Makes quick work of shredding carrots for the soup base.

Ingredients

For the Broth

• 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth

For the Vegetables

• 3 tablespoon 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

For Flavoring

• 3 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 eggs, hard-boiled and cubed (See the notes)
• ½ cup parsley or dill, chopped
• Salt, pepper to taste

For Serving

• Sour cream for serving

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How to Make Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add cubed potatoes. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 15 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and grated carrot. Sauté while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After the potatoes are cooked, add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture into the pot. Then stir in cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

Stir in lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and chopped parsley (or dill). Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the pot from heat. Ladle your Ukrainian Green Borscht into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy warm!

How to Serve Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

Serving Green Borscht is a delightful experience that highlights its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This nutritious soup can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing your meal with complementary tastes.

With Sour Cream

• Dollop of Cream: A generous spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the soup’s flavors.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Dill: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for an aromatic kick that enhances the overall taste.

Crusty Bread

• Rustic Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping, making the meal hearty and satisfying.

Lemon Wedges

• Citrus Twist: Offer lemon wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh juice into their bowls for added brightness.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Extra Protein: Include cubed hard-boiled eggs as a topping for added richness and texture in each bowl.

Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy Crunch: Side pickled vegetables can provide a crunchy contrast and enhance the flavor profile of the borscht.

How to Perfect Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

Perfecting your Green Borscht requires attention to detail and a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like organic spinach and homemade broth to maximize taste.
• Right Cooking Time: Ensure you don’t overcook the greens; they should remain bright and vibrant for best presentation.
• Season Generously: Adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate seasonal vegetables to keep the soup light, fresh, and full of nutrients.
• Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve the borscht piping hot, which brings out its full flavor.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like feta cheese or avocado slices for unique twists.

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Best Side Dishes for Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Green Borscht can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Vareniki: Ukrainian dumplings filled with potatoes or cheese, offering a comforting complement to the soup.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy breadsticks infused with garlic make for great dippers alongside your warm soup.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, dill, and vinegar provides a cool contrast.
4. Syrniki: Sweet cheese pancakes that add a delightful sweetness to balance the savory soup.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw dressed lightly offers texture and freshness that pairs well with borscht.
6. Roasted Beets: Earthy roasted beets add color and depth of flavor that complements the greens in the soup.
7. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives adds briny richness that can elevate each spoonful of borscht.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice or meat create a filling meal alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ukrainian Green Borscht can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish.

• Using the wrong broth: Always choose chicken or vegetable broth for a rich flavor. Avoid water, as it will dilute the taste.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing onion and carrot brings out their sweetness. Don’t skip this step for a deeper flavor.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Salt and pepper are essential to balance the flavors in your Green Borscht.
• Overcooking the spinach: Spinach cooks quickly; add it towards the end to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Neglecting garnishes: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and enhances presentation. Don’t forget this finishing touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)?

Green Borscht is a healthy soup made with spinach, potatoes, and broth. It is refreshing and perfect for summer meals.

How can I customize my Green Borscht?

You can add other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice for more tanginess.

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.

Is Green Borscht suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, it’s vegetarian-friendly!

What are some good side dishes with Green Borscht?

Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that balances flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Ukrainian Green Borscht is not only healthy but also versatile. Perfect as lunch or dinner, it allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy its fresh flavors any time of year!