This Chilled Orange Borscht recipe is a refreshing twist on the traditional beet-based soup. Made with fresh oranges, beets, and a hint of dill, this tangy and flavorful soup is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for entertaining. Serve it chilled with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a light and refreshing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh orange juice
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 3 medium beets, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced beets to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the orange juice and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. If needed, strain the soup to remove any lumps or fibers.
- Stir in the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the soup and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
- To serve, ladle the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream. Sprinkle with additional dill, if desired.
Interesting Facts
Borscht is a traditional Russian soup that is typically made with beets and served hot. This chilled version with orange is a refreshing twist.
The combination of the sweet orange juice and the earthy beets creates a unique flavor profile that is both tangy and savory.
Borscht is often served with a dollop of sour cream, which adds a creamy richness to the soup.
The addition of dill adds a fresh and herbal note to the soup, balancing out the sweetness of the oranges and beets.