There’s something magical about a bowl of Green Borscht—its vibrant tanginess, velvety texture, and comforting warmth make it a true gem of Ukrainian cuisine. Made with fresh sorrel leaves, hearty potatoes, and a medley of aromatics, this soup brings springtime freshness to your table all year round. Whether you’re diving into Eastern European cooking for the first time or reliving cherished family traditions, this recipe is a must-try!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Green Borscht is light yet filling, perfect for any season. It balances the earthiness of potatoes with the tangy zing of sorrel, all wrapped up in a comforting broth. The garnish of hard-boiled eggs and creamy sour cream elevates it to hearty perfection.
What Does Green Borscht Taste Like?
The flavor of Green Borscht is uniquely refreshing: tangy, herbaceous, and savory. Sorrel lends a bright, lemony taste that’s beautifully complemented by the richness of broth and creaminess of garnishes. It’s anything but ordinary!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Broth
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water with bouillon cubes)
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
Greens
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh sorrel leaves, chopped (substitute: spinach + lemon juice)
- Optional: 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach or nettles, chopped
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
How to Make Green Borscht
1. Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.
2. Add Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth. Add diced potatoes and a bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Incorporate Greens
Stir in the chopped sorrel leaves and any additional greens, like spinach or nettles. Let the soup simmer for 2–3 minutes until the greens are wilted.
4. Season and Finalize
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped fresh dill.
5. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with chopped hard-boiled eggs and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
What to Serve with Green Borscht
This soup pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or rye bread
- A side of Ukrainian-style crepes or dumplings
- A fresh cucumber and tomato salad
Tips for the Best Green Borscht
- Use fresh sorrel: Its distinct tanginess is key to the soup’s flavor. If unavailable, spinach with a squeeze of lemon juice is an excellent substitute.
- Don’t skip the dill: This herb enhances the soup’s earthy and fresh flavors.
- Adjust the tanginess: Add a little lemon juice or vinegar if you prefer a more pronounced zing.
Storage Instructions
Green Borscht stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve its texture. For longer storage, freeze without garnishes for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water with bouillon cubes.
What can I use instead of sorrel?
Spinach with a squeeze of lemon juice or Swiss chard can mimic sorrel’s tangy flavor.
Can I use other garnishes?
Certainly! Try crispy croutons, shredded cheese, or even a poached egg for variety.
Conclusion
Green Borscht is a timeless classic that brings comfort and excitement to your table. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is perfect for cozy family meals or as an introduction to the rich culinary traditions of Ukraine.
Looking for more Eastern European-inspired dishes? Check out my recipes for Beet Borscht, Pierogi, and Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! Let’s inspire each other with our culinary adventures.
Health Benefits of Green Borscht
Green Borscht isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Sorrel: A rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and support healthy skin.
- Potatoes: A good source of energy-providing carbohydrates and potassium for heart health.
- Eggs: High in protein and essential vitamins like B12, making the soup more filling and nutritious.
- Dill: Known for its antibacterial properties and high vitamin content, dill adds more than just flavor.
Variations to Try
Green Borscht is wonderfully versatile! Here are some variations to suit different tastes:
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower florets or zucchini for a low-carb option.
- Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or turkey to make the soup even heartier.
- Vegan Version: Replace the eggs and sour cream with silken tofu or plant-based yogurt for a creamy texture.
How to Make It Extra Special
- Homemade Broth: Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for a richer, more robust flavor.
- Fresh Nettles: If you can find them, fresh nettles bring a unique, slightly nutty taste to the soup.
- A Smoky Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika or a hint of smoked salt for an unexpected flavor profile.
A Brief History of Green Borscht
Green Borscht, or “Shchavel Borscht” in Ukrainian, has deep roots in Eastern European cuisine. Traditionally made in spring when sorrel was abundant, it was cherished for its fresh, tangy taste and simple ingredients. Over generations, it has become a beloved staple, with regional variations showcasing the adaptability of this comforting soup.
Fun Serving Ideas
Green Borscht isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience! Here are some creative ways to serve it:
- Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a rustic touch.
- Family-Style: Place all garnishes (eggs, dill, sour cream) on the table and let everyone customize their bowl.
- Appetizer Cups: Serve small portions in teacups for an elegant starter at a dinner party.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
