Borscht with Beans
Belarusian Style
A robust and satisfying version of the classic beet soup, Belarusian Borscht with Beans is a flavorful dish that incorporates tender beans for added heartiness. It's a comforting and nutritious meal, often enjoyed as a main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 cups Beef broth
- 2 cups Water
- 3 medium Beets(peeled and grated)
- 3 medium Yukon potatoes(peeled and sliced into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 large Yellow onion(chopped)
- 2 stalks Celery(sliced)
- 3 cups Green cabbage(shredded)
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil(divided)
- 1/4 cup Tomato paste
- 1 can (19 oz) White cannellini beans(drained and rinsed)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons White vinegar(or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1 large clove Garlic(pressed)
- 3 tablespoons Fresh dill(chopped)
- for garnish Sour cream
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 7-8 minutes.
- 2
Add the sliced celery and shredded cabbage to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- 3
Add the beef broth, water, sliced potatoes, sliced carrots, bay leaves, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- 4
While the soup simmers, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the grated beets and sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
- 5
Add the sautéed beets to the soup pot. Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and the pressed garlic. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- 6
Stir in the chopped fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
- 7
Ladle the borscht into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, roast the beets before grating them.
- ✓You can use other types of white beans, such as Great Northern or navy beans, if cannellini beans are unavailable.
- ✓This borscht can be served cold as well, which is a traditional way to enjoy it in Belarus.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Vegetarian Borscht: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added flavor and texture.