Top Health Benefits of Ukrainian Beet Soup (Borscht) You Need to Know

Borscht is a nutrient-rich, vibrant soup made primarily from beets, which are an excellent source of folate, manganese, potassium, and dietary nitrates that support heart health and blood pressure regulation. This soup is also packed with fiber from vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety. Beets are known for their antioxidant properties due to compounds like betalains, which may help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, Borscht is low in fat and calories, making it a perfect option for weight-conscious individuals or those looking to eat clean and light. With its rich red color and earthy flavor, it also provides a variety of vitamins including Vitamin C, Vitamin A (from carrots), and some B-vitamins. When made without meat or cream, it becomes entirely plant-based and suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets while still offering a warm, satisfying, and nourishing meal.

Ingredients :

Beetroot : 3 Piece

Carrot : 1 Piece

Potato : 2 Piece

Onion : 1 Piece

Cabbage : 1 Cup

Tomato Paste : 1 Tablespoon

Water : 6 Cup

vegetable broth-

Olive Oil : 2 Tablespoon

Salt : as needed

black pepper : to taste

bay leaf : 1 Piece

Lemon Juice : 1 Tablespoon

Parsley : to taste

Garlic : 2 clove

Sour Cream : for garnish

Discover the bold flavors and stunning color of Ukrainian Borscht – a healthy, heartwarming beet soup you’ll want to make again and again!

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and grate 3 medium beets.
Finely chop 1 onion and 1 carrot.
Shred 1 cup of cabbage and peel and dice 2 medium potato.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onion and carrot; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Beets and Tomato

Add the grated beets and 1 tablespoon tomato paste to the pot.
Stir and cook for 5 minutes to enhance color and flavor.

Step 4: Add Water and Potatoes

Pour in 6 cups of water or vegetable broth.
Add diced potatoes and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Add shredded cabbage to the pot.
Season with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Adjust seasoning if needed.
Optional: Add a pinch of sugar or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve with rye bread or enjoy on its own.

Enjoy your vibrant and healthy homemade Borscht!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Ukrainian Beet Soup (Borscht)

When preparing Borscht, one of the key elements is balancing flavors while preserving the natural color and texture of the vegetables. Beets should be grated or finely chopped and added at the right stage to maintain their vibrant hue—overcooking can dull the color and reduce nutrient retention. Sautéing onions, carrots, and beets gently in a little oil before simmering enhances depth of flavor without overpowering the soup. Adding cabbage later in the cooking process helps retain a slight crunch and avoids mushiness. It’s also important to be mindful of the seasoning: salt, pepper, vinegar or lemon juice (for acidity), and a small pinch of sugar can elevate the natural sweetness of the beets. If using broth, choose a low-sodium option, especially for those on DASH or low-salt diets. Avoid overboiling, as it can make the soup cloudy and flatten its fresh taste. Lastly, Borscht tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully, so making it in advance can enhance both taste and convenience.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Ukrainian Beet Soup (Borscht)

Borscht is highly versatile and fits well within several popular dietary frameworks. It is ideal for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, low-calorie, and Mediterranean diets, especially when prepared with olive oil and without dairy or meat. Its high vegetable content aligns with DASH guidelines for lowering blood pressure. However, it is not naturally suited to ketogenic or paleo diets due to the presence of high-carb ingredients like beets, carrots, and potatoes. Similarly, it is relatively low in protein unless supplemented with legumes or meat, which may limit its application in high-protein diets. For those with blood sugar concerns, it's worth noting that beets and carrots have moderate glycemic indexes, so portion control may be important. Individuals observing fasting diets can enjoy Borscht as a light post-fast meal due to its gentle, hydrating, and nutritious profile. Modifications can be made to suit more restrictive diets, but even in its classic form, Borscht stands out as a wholesome, health-supportive choice for a wide range of lifestyles.