Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup)

If you’re looking for a delightful soup that’s as refreshing as it is comforting, let me introduce you to Green Borscht (Ukrainian sorrel/spinach soup). This vibrant dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. It has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty yet light.

What I love most about this Green Borscht is its versatility. Whether served hot on a chilly day or chilled during warmer months, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the bright green color and unique flavor; it’s a great way to sneak in some greens!
• Make-ahead convenience: It stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Refreshing taste: The combination of sorrel or spinach with dill gives this soup a light and zesty flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Green Borscht recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously fresh soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (by taste)

For Serving

• 1 Tablespoon sour cream (for serving)
• 1/2 hard boiled egg (for serving)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Green Borscht is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own:

• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
• Change up the herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro can be used instead of dill for different flavor profiles.
• Make it vegan: Skip the sour cream and egg topping, and enjoy it as is or with a plant-based yogurt alternative.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by cubing your carrots and potatoes. Dice the onion finely. Chop the sorrel and dill, then set them aside. Preparing all your ingredients ahead of time makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots

In a large pot, heat ghee butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent—this should take about 3 minutes. Stir often! Then add in your cubed carrots and cook for another 3 minutes. Sautéing helps develop lovely flavors that will enrich your borscht.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the filtered water along with cubed potatoes, bay leaves, and vegetable bouillon base. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all vegetables are cooked through. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Sorrel (or Spinach)

Stir in your chopped sorrel and dill now! Cover again and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. If you choose not to use sorrel, substitute with ½ cup of chopped spinach plus one tablespoon of lemon juice for added brightness.

Step 5: Serve Up Your Delicious Borscht

Ladle the borscht into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and either chopped or halved boiled egg. A sprinkle of black pepper adds just the right finishing touch! Enjoy each bite of this delightful Green Borscht—it’s sure to warm your heart!

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

Making Green Borscht can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your soup-making game!

• Choose Fresh Sorrel or Spinach: Using fresh leaves enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your borscht. Fresh greens add a vibrant color and a burst of tangy taste that dried versions can’t replicate.
• Adjust the Sourness: If you prefer a more pronounced sour flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or extra sorrel. This will bring out the signature zesty notes that make this soup so refreshing!
• Let it Rest: After cooking, allowing your borscht to rest for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s like a little timeout that results in a more harmonious taste!
• Experiment with Herbs: While dill is traditional, don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like parsley or chives for added complexity. This not only diversifies the flavor but also brings additional health benefits.
• Serve It Cold for Summer: Green Borscht is not just a comforting hot dish; it can also be enjoyed chilled during warmer months. Just refrigerate before serving for a refreshing twist!

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

Presentation is key when it comes to enjoying your homemade Green Borscht! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Dill: A sprinkle of fresh dill on top adds not only flavor but also a pop of color, making your bowl look inviting.
• Crème Fraîche: If you want something richer than sour cream, crème fraîche offers a luxurious creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the borscht. The combination of textures enhances every spoonful!
• Pickled Vegetables: Serving pickled vegetables alongside adds an extra layer of crunch and tang, balancing the flavors of the soup nicely.
• Potato Varenyky (Dumplings): These soft dumplings filled with seasoned potatoes complement the borscht wonderfully and make for a hearty meal.
• Simple Cabbage Salad: A light salad with shredded cabbage dressed in olive oil and vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Enjoy crafting your Green Borscht! Each bowl can tell its own story while bringing warmth and comfort to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Borscht recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful soup throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious borscht fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover green borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the boiled eggs and sour cream separately until serving to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen borscht overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, pour into a pot and warm over medium heat until heated through. Stir occasionally.
• You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Green Borscht.

Can I use spinach instead of sorrel in Green Borscht?

Absolutely! If you can’t find sorrel, chopped spinach combined with a bit of lemon juice makes a great substitute, providing that similar tangy flavor.

How do I serve Green Borscht?

Green Borscht is traditionally served hot or cold. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream and half a boiled egg for added richness and flavor.

What are some variations of Green Borscht?

You can customize your Green Borscht by adding other vegetables like peas or zucchini. You may also experiment with herbs like parsley or cilantro for different flavor profiles.

Is Green Borscht nutritious?

Yes! This soup is packed with vitamins from the greens and vegetables, making it a healthy choice filled with nutrients while still being comforting and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Green Borscht as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a burst of flavors and memories that warms the heart. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at gatherings, this soup is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and savor every spoonful! Happy cooking!