Cozy Ukrainian Borscht Recipe for Cold Winter Days

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Cozy Ukrainian Borscht Recipe Perfect for Salt Lake City Winters

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht: A Hearty Beet Soup for Winter

BRUCE BIGFORD

Editor 801 Insider

As the crisp air settles over Salt Lake City, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a steaming bowl of Ukrainian borscht.

This vibrant beet soup, renowned for its deep ruby-red hue and rich flavors, has been a cornerstone of Eastern European cuisine for centuries.

Its hearty ingredients and comforting warmth make it an ideal dish to combat the cold Utah winters.

In recent years, Salt Lake City has seen a blossoming appreciation for Ukrainian culture and its culinary delights.

Events like the Living Traditions Festival have showcased traditional dishes, with the Utah Ukrainian Community offering authentic borscht to eager attendees.

Such gatherings not only celebrate cultural diversity but also introduce locals to the rich tapestry of Ukrainian flavors.

Crafting your own borscht at home is a rewarding endeavor.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating this classic dish:

Ingredients:

🥔 3 medium beets, peeled and grated

🫒 4 tablespoons olive oil

🍗 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

🥔 3 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced

🥕 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

🌿 2 celery stalks, chopped

🧅 1 medium onion, finely chopped

🍅 4 tablespoons tomato paste

🔔 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional)

🫘 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

🍃 2 bay leaves

🧄 1 garlic clove, minced

🥄 Sour cream, for serving

🌿 Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**

- Grate the beets and set aside.

- Dice the potatoes and keep them submerged in cold water to prevent browning.

- Slice the carrots, chop the celery, onion, and bell pepper.

2. **Sauté the Beets:**

- In a large pot over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

- Add the grated beets and sauté for about 10 minutes until they soften.

3. **Build the Soup Base:**

- Pour in the chicken broth.

- Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots.

- Bring to a gentle boil and cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 15 minutes.

4. **Sauté Aromatics:**

- In a separate pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

- Sauté the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper until they become translucent.

5. **Incorporate Tomato Paste:**

- Stir in the tomato paste with the sautéed vegetables and cook for an additional minute.

6. **Combine and Simmer:**

- Transfer the sautéed mixture into the main pot.

- Add the white beans, bay leaves, and minced garlic.

- Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. **Season and Serve:**

- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

- Remove the bay leaves.

- Ladle the borscht into bowls, topping each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

For those seeking authentic ingredients, local markets in Salt Lake City often carry fresh beets and other essentials.

Additionally, attending cultural events can provide inspiration and a deeper connection to the dish's heritage.

Embracing the tradition of borscht not only warms the body but also offers a taste of Ukrainian culture, bringing a piece of Eastern Europe to the heart of Utah.

Enjoy this hearty soup as a comforting meal during the chilly months ahead.

FAQ

What exactly is Ukrainian borscht?

Ukrainian borscht is a classic beet-based soup that’s hearty, colorful, and full of flavor. It’s made with vegetables like beets, potatoes, carrots, and onions, then finished with herbs and usually a dollop of sour cream.

Is borscht vegetarian, or does it have meat?

It can be either. Many people make it with chicken or beef broth, but vegetarian borscht is very common and still incredibly satisfying.

Does borscht taste sweet because of the beets?

Not really. Beets add a subtle natural sweetness, but it’s balanced with savory broth, tomato paste, and garlic. The result is rich and comforting, not sugary.

Why is borscht such a popular winter soup?

It’s filling, warming, and packed with root vegetables—exactly what you want on a cold day. That’s why it’s been a winter staple across Eastern Europe for generations.

Can I make borscht ahead of time?

Yes, and it actually gets better. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

What’s usually served with borscht?

Most people serve it with crusty bread or rye bread. Sour cream and fresh dill on top are classic and highly recommended.

Where can I find ingredients for borscht in Salt Lake City?

You can find most ingredients at regular grocery stores. Beets, dill, and potatoes are easy to find, and local international markets sometimes carry Eastern European specialties.

Is borscht healthy?

Yes. It’s loaded with vegetables and fiber, and beets are known for their nutritional benefits. It’s comfort food that still feels nourishing.

Can I freeze borscht?

Absolutely. It freezes well, especially if you leave out the potatoes or add them fresh when reheating.

Is borscht only a Ukrainian dish?

Ukraine is best known for it, but variations exist across Eastern Europe. Each region puts its own spin on the recipe.

Summary

Ukrainian borscht is more than just a soup—it’s a comforting, time-honored dish that brings warmth to cold days and connects people through food. With its rich color, hearty vegetables, and deep flavor, it’s the kind of meal that feels especially fitting during Salt Lake City winters.