This vibrant green borscht is full of fresh spinach and packed with flavor. It’s a healthy, hearty soup that warms you right up on a chilly day!
Honestly, I love how quick it is to make. Just toss everything into a pot, and you’re good to go! Pair it with some crusty bread for a perfect meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can use a shallot or green onions instead. They work great too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for that green color and nutritious boost. If it’s not available, feel free to swap with Swiss chard, kale, or even frozen spinach; just ensure it’s well-thawed and drained.
Broth: The recipe calls for vegetable or chicken broth for richness. If you want a lighter option, using water with a bit of salt will work, or homemade broth if you have it on hand.
Herbs: Dill and parsley bring freshness. If you can’t find fresh herbs, you can use dried, but use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as they are stronger in flavor.
Lemon Juice/Sauerkraut Juice: Both add acidity. If you prefer a different flavor, vinegar is an excellent alternative, such as apple cider or white wine vinegar.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Borscht?
The key to the right texture lies in cooking the potatoes and greens just right. Here’s how:
- Start by cooking the potatoes until fork-tender—you want them soft but not mushy.
- When adding the spinach and herbs, simmer briefly to keep that vibrant green color and freshness. Overcooking them will dull both the color and flavor.
- Finally, adding the lemon or sauerkraut juice at the end lifts the dish, giving it a bright taste and bringing all flavors together nicely.
Enjoy making your green borscht with these tips! It’s a bright, nourishing dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Easy Ukrainian Green Borscht with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 large bunch fresh spinach (about 6 cups), washed and chopped
- 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or 1/4 cup sauerkraut juice (to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Sour cream or plain yogurt for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful green borscht takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. It’s at this point that your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
2. Add Garlic and Potatoes:
Add the minced garlic to the pot, cooking for about another minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. This should take around 15 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Greens:
After the potatoes are nice and soft, stir in the chopped spinach, dill, and parsley. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes. This step will make all the flavors come together beautifully while wilting the spinach to perfection.
4. Season and Serve:
Finally, add the lemon juice or sauerkraut juice to brighten the flavors, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your warm green borscht hot, adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for extra creaminess if desired. Enjoy this fresh and tangy twist on traditional borscht!
Dig in and enjoy your bowl of vibrant green goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the soup. This prevents excess water from diluting the flavor of your borscht.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! You can substitute dried herbs instead. Use about one-third the amount of dried dill and parsley compared to fresh. Add them when you add the broth to allow their flavors to infuse into the soup.
How Can I Store Leftover Borscht?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens up, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! The recipe is already vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just skip the sour cream or yogurt, or use a vegan alternative to keep it completely plant-based.
These tips should help you create the best borscht possible while allowing for any adjustments based on your pantry and preferences! Enjoy!