Ukrainian Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. This vibrant soup is packed with fresh greens, making it not only delicious but also a healthy option for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a quick meal, this recipe shines with its unique combination of ingredients and comforting taste.
Why You’ll Love This Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
This recipe stands out for several reasons that make it a must-try in your kitchen.
- Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with spinach and other vegetables, this soup is full of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it perfect for any season.
- Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will love it.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken broth and fresh herbs creates a soothing and satisfying experience.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Ukrainian Green Borscht is simple with the right tools. Having the necessary equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Medium non-stick skillet
- Grater
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
- Medium non-stick skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables without sticking, ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
- 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
- 3 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnish
- 4 eggs, hard-boiled and cubed (See the notes)
- ½ cup parsley or dill, chopped
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Sour cream for serving
How to Make Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
While the potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and grated carrot. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
To the pot with cooked potatoes, add the sautéed onion mixture along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes while seasoning 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 gently to combine all ingredients well.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Enjoy your homemade Ukrainian Green Borscht!
How to Serve Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Green Borscht is a vibrant and nutritious soup that shines when served with complementary flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream
- Sour cream adds a creamy richness that balances the soup’s tanginess and enhances its flavor.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh parsley or dill sprinkled on top adds a burst of freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread, such as rye or sourdough, pairs perfectly with Green Borscht for dipping, adding texture and heartiness.
Include Lemon Wedges
- Providing lemon wedges allows diners to add an extra zing of acidity, brightening the overall taste of the soup.
Offer Extra Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Serving extra cubed hard-boiled eggs on the side gives guests the option to customize their bowl for added protein.
Pair with a Simple Salad
- A light salad, such as cucumber or tomato salad, complements Green Borscht and offers a refreshing crunch alongside the warm soup.
How to Perfect Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
To ensure your Green Borscht turns out perfect every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use Fresh Greens: Fresh spinach or other greens provide better flavor and nutrition compared to frozen options.
- Balance Acidity: Adjust lemon juice according to your taste; too much can overpower the delicate flavors.
- Cook Veggies Just Right: Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should remain slightly firm for texture.
- Season Generously: Taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually; seasoning is key in bringing out all the flavors.
- Chill Before Serving: For a refreshing summer dish, let the soup chill in the fridge before serving it cold.
- Experiment with Broths: Try using vegetable broth for a lighter version or chicken broth for richer flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Pairing side dishes with your Green Borscht can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Pampushky: Ukrainian garlic bread rolls that are soft and fluffy, perfect for dunking into the soup.
- Potato Varenyky: Dumplings filled with potato or cheese that complement the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs that balances the warmth of the soup.
- Beet Salad: A tangy beet salad can add sweetness and earthiness alongside the borscht.
- Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled veggies provide a crunchy contrast and acidic bite that pairs well with Green Borscht.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers creaminess and richness that enhances each spoonful of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup), it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Using stale broth: Always use fresh chicken or vegetable broth for the best flavor. Stale broth can make the soup taste flat.
- Overcooking the greens: Spinach should be added towards the end of cooking. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients.
- Neglecting seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance flavors. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Ignoring egg preparation: Hard-boiled eggs add richness. Ensure they’re cooked properly before adding them to the soup for optimal taste.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the soup’s flavor. Don’t leave it out, as it adds essential acidity.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Green Borscht in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; just leave some space for expansion.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe container and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium until hot, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup):
What is Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)?
Green Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian soup made with spinach and other fresh greens, offering a light yet flavorful dish perfect for summer.
Can I use frozen spinach in my Green Borscht?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.
How can I customize my Green Borscht?
You can add other vegetables like peas or green beans, or incorporate additional herbs such as dill or cilantro for extra flavor.
Is Green Borscht healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with vitamins from fresh greens and is low in calories, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
Can I make Green Borscht vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, keeping it completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it with various greens and herbs based on your preference. This dish makes for a healthy lunch or dinner option that your family will love. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful taste of Ukraine!
Delightful Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Experience the refreshing taste of Ukrainian Green Borscht, a vibrant spinach soup that celebrates the essence of summer. This nutritious dish combines fresh greens with hearty vegetables, making it a deliciously healthy option for any meal. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or chilled, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple lunch. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 3 large potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 zucchini, cubed
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Garnish: hard-boiled eggs, parsley or dill, sour cream
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add cubed potatoes and cook on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced onion and grated carrot for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Add the sautéed onion mixture to the pot with potatoes. Stir in cubed zucchini and chopped spinach; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in lemon juice and add cubed hard-boiled eggs along with chopped herbs. Combine gently.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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