Borsh

Borsh Recipe from Azerbaijan | Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

Region / culture: Azerbaijan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Borscht is a traditional Eastern European soup known for its distinctive red color, which comes primarily from its beet content. This hearty soup is a staple in many households, especially in countries like Ukraine, Russia, and Poland. It's a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold and is known for its comforting and rich flavors. The recipe provided here offers a twist on the classic by incorporating chicken, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal for any time of the year.

History

The origins of borscht can be traced back to ancient Slavic times, where initially, it was a hot broth made from pickled stems, leaves, and umbels of common hogweed. With the introduction of beets to Eastern Europe, the soup evolved into the colorful and beloved dish known today. Over the centuries, borscht has become a symbol of Eastern European cuisine, with each region and even each family offering their unique take on the recipe.

Ingredients

500 g of beef (or chicken)
50 g of butter
1 small cabbage
4 medium-sized potatoes
1 small beet
onion
tomatoes
carrot
bell pepper
garlic
parsley

How to prepare

Place beef in a pan with water, add bay leaves and oregano. Boil until the meat is cooked. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: cut potatoes, cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. Also, chop the onion and grate the beet.
In a separate frying pan, fry the onion (using butter) with tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and beet.
Once the broth is ready, boil the potatoes in it. Then, add the previously chopped cabbage and let it boil for 5 minutes. Next, transfer all the fried vegetables from the frying pan into the broth. Cook the borscht for an additional 2 minutes.
Finally, add chopped garlic and parsley. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve the borscht with sour cream.

Variations

Vegetarian Borscht: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Beef Borscht: Substitute the chicken with beef for a more traditional flavor.
Spicy Borscht: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a diced chili pepper for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best flavor and color for your borscht, consider the following tips:

- Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the broth enhances their taste and color.

- Adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the soup can help preserve the bright color of the beets.

- For a richer broth, simmer the chicken with a few pieces of beef bone.

- If the soup is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding more broth or water until you reach your desired thickness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the borscht hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For a complete meal, accompany the soup with a slice of rye bread or a side of garlic bread.

Cooking Techniques

For the best results, simmer the soup on low heat after adding all the ingredients. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and complex taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute.

- Leeks can be used in place of onions for a milder flavor.

- If butter is not an option, olive oil can be used for sautéing the vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

Borscht tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the borscht in a deep bowl, garnished with a swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of dill, and a side of lemon wedges. For an elegant touch, serve with a sprig of fresh parsley on top.

Pairing Recommendations

Borscht pairs wonderfully with a side of dark rye bread or pampushky (Ukrainian garlic bread). For a beverage, consider a light lager or a glass of kvass.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover borscht in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of chicken borscht is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without overindulging. On average, a serving contains about 200-250 calories.

Carbohydrates

A serving of borscht is relatively low in carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbs in this recipe come from the vegetables, particularly the potatoes and beets. A single serving may contain approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

The fat content in this borscht recipe is moderate, primarily coming from the butter used for sautéing and the natural fats found in the chicken. To reduce the fat content, you can opt for a leaner cut of chicken or use less butter. On average, a serving might contain about 10-15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chicken borscht is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the inclusion of chicken. Each serving can provide a substantial amount of your daily protein needs, approximately 20-25 grams, making it a filling and muscle-building friendly meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to its rich vegetable content. Beets are high in folate and manganese, while cabbage and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C and K. Additionally, the variety of vegetables contributes to a healthy intake of fiber, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in this recipe is dairy, due to the use of butter. Individuals with a dairy allergy can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative to enjoy this delicious soup.

Summary

Overall, chicken borscht is a nutritious and balanced meal. It's low in calories and carbohydrates, moderate in fats, and high in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It's an excellent addition to any diet, providing a range of health benefits while satisfying hunger.

Summary

This chicken borscht recipe offers a delightful twist on a traditional Eastern European dish. It's nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for any season. With its rich history and versatility, borscht is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Eastern Europe into your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, this soup is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Borsh. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wise and experienced cook, who had learned her craft from her own mother and grandmother before her. I would spend hours in her kitchen, watching her work her magic with pots and pans, creating delicious dishes that always seemed to fill the house with warmth and comfort.

One day, as she was preparing dinner, I asked her about the recipe for Borsh. I had heard her mention it before, but I had never seen her make it. She smiled and told me that Borsh was a traditional Russian soup, made with beets, cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables. She explained that it was a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for cold winter days.

My grandmother then proceeded to show me how to make Borsh. She began by peeling and chopping the vegetables, explaining the importance of each ingredient and its role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. She added some beef broth and a touch of vinegar to give the soup a tangy kick, and let it simmer on the stove for hours, until the flavors had melded together into a rich and savory broth.

As the aroma of the Borsh filled the kitchen, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned how to make a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations of my family. My grandmother smiled and patted me on the back, telling me that I had done a wonderful job.

From that day on, Borsh became a regular dish in our household. My grandmother would make it on special occasions, or simply when the weather turned cold and we needed something to warm us up. I would often help her in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and stirring the pot as the soup simmered on the stove.

Over the years, I have made Borsh countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I would add a splash of cream to make it extra creamy, or a handful of fresh dill for a burst of flavor. No matter how I prepared it, the Borsh always turned out delicious, evoking memories of my grandmother and the time we spent together in the kitchen.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking was more than just a means of nourishing the body - it was a way to connect with my heritage and keep alive the traditions of my family. Each time I make Borsh, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the knowledge and skills that my grandmother passed down to me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a steaming pot of Borsh for my own family, I can't help but smile and think of my grandmother. I know that she is looking down on me, proud of the cook that I have become and grateful for the love and care that I put into each dish that I make.

And as I serve the Borsh to my family, watching as they savor each spoonful with delight, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. I am grateful for the recipe for Borsh that my grandmother shared with me, and for the lessons in love and tradition that she imparted along with it.