Beef and Beet Borscht Recipe: A Hearty and Tangy Delight

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Elevate your mealtime with this hearty Beef and Beet Borscht. A traditional Eastern European dish, it combines tender beef, earthy beets, and creamy sour cream for a bowl of absolute comfort.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs 45 mins
Total Time: 5 hrs 5 mins
Servings: 8

Ingredients for Beef and Beet Borscht

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 (1-inch thick) slice of bone-in beef shank
  • 3 quarts water
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • 1 bay leaf

For the Borscht:

  • 3 cups diced peeled beets
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage
  • ¼ cup white vinegar (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Broth

  1. Heat a large soup pot over high heat.
  2. Brown the beef shank on both sides, about 3 minutes per side, to enhance the flavor.
  3. Add 3 quarts of water, onion, carrots, celery, and a bay leaf to the pot.
  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  5. Strain the broth, discarding the solids, and set it aside.

Cook the Borscht

  1. Return the strained broth to the soup pot.
  2. Add diced beets and chopped cabbage. Stir occasionally and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
  3. Lower the heat and add vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of beets, cabbage, and broth.
  2. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Borscht

  • Boost Flavor: Add garlic or a touch of tomato paste for extra depth.
  • Texture Variation: Leave some beef pieces in the soup for a heartier bite.
  • Make It Keto-Friendly: Omit carrots and reduce vinegar for a keto-friendly version.

Why This Recipe Fits a Healthy Lifestyle

Beef and Beet Borscht is high in protein and naturally gluten-free. The beef shank provides collagen-rich broth, while beets and cabbage deliver antioxidants and vitamins. Sour cream adds a tangy richness without overwhelming the dish, making it wholesome and satisfying.

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