This classic beef and beet borscht recipe is a traditional Russian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Made with tender beef, earthy beets, and a variety of vegetables, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a comforting meal. The deep red color of the borscht is visually stunning and the flavors blend together beautifully. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread to complete the meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium beets, peeled and grated
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small head cabbage, shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh dill, for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the grated beets to the pot and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the diced potatoes, shredded cabbage, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve the borscht hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
- Enjoy!