Turnip Boršč Recipe from Belarus | Beef and Beetroot Soup

Turnip Boršč

Turnip Boršč Recipe from Belarus | Beef and Beetroot Soup
Region / culture: Belarus | Servings: 4

Introduction

Turnip Boršč
Turnip Boršč

Turnip Boršč is a traditional Eastern European soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of turnips with the sweetness of beets and the richness of veal bones to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

History

Boršč has been a staple in Eastern European cuisine for centuries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the classic soup. Turnip Boršč is a variation that is popular in countries like Ukraine, Russia, and Poland, where turnips are a common and versatile ingredient.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Add cubed potatoes and turnips to the bone stock and boil until half done.
  2. 10 minutes before the boršc is done, add boiled and shredded beet. Also, add onion and carrots sautéed in pork fat or margarine, tomato paste, spices, sugar, vinegar, and salt. Cook over a low heat until it is done.
  3. Before serving, season the boršc with sour cream.

Variations

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the veal bones and use vegetable broth instead.
  • Add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for added flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different spices like paprika, dill, or bay leaves to customize the soup to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pot.

- For a richer broth, simmer the veal bones for several hours before adding the other ingredients.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, vinegar, or sugar as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Turnip Boršč hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the veal bones to create a rich and flavorful broth.

- Sauté the onions and carrots before adding them to the soup to enhance their sweetness.

- Simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use beef or chicken broth instead of veal bones for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute butter for margarine for a richer taste.

- Use white vinegar or lemon juice instead of 3% vinegar if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Turnip Boršč can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Turnip Boršč in individual bowls, garnished with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a rustic and comforting meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Turnip Boršč pairs well with a light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a malty beer like a Czech Pilsner. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Turnip Boršč in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 25g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: Dairy

Summary

Turnip Boršč is a nutritious and balanced meal, rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. It is a great option for those looking for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Summary

Turnip Boršč is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. With its rich and flavorful broth, tender vegetables, and creamy sour cream topping, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Turnip Boršč. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. We had a small garden where we grew all sorts of vegetables, including turnips. One day, our neighbor Mrs. Petrovich came over with a big pot of boršč and offered us some. It was the most delicious soup I had ever tasted - tangy, hearty, and full of flavor.

I asked Mrs. Petrovich for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to teach me how to make it. She explained that boršč is a traditional Eastern European soup that can be made with a variety of ingredients, but her favorite version included turnips. She showed me how to peel and chop the turnips, and how to sauté them with onions and garlic until they were soft and caramelized.

Next, Mrs. Petrovich added some vegetable broth, tomatoes, and a handful of spices to the pot. She let the soup simmer on the stove for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften. Finally, she stirred in a splash of vinegar and a dollop of sour cream, giving the boršč its signature tangy kick.

As I watched Mrs. Petrovich cook, I couldn't help but be in awe of her skill and expertise in the kitchen. She moved with such grace and confidence, adding just the right amount of each ingredient without measuring anything. It was as if she had been making boršč her whole life, and I was grateful to have the opportunity to learn from her.

After the soup had simmered for hours, Mrs. Petrovich ladled some into a bowl for me to try. I took a hesitant sip, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as the rich, complex flavors hit my taste buds, I knew I had found something special.

From that day on, Turnip Boršč became a staple in our household. I made it for my family whenever the weather turned cold, or whenever we needed a comforting meal to warm our souls. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Mrs. Petrovich and the day she had opened my eyes to the wonders of this simple yet delicious soup.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different spices and vegetables, trying to find the perfect balance of flavors. But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe from Mrs. Petrovich will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of simmering boršč, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a memory of a time and a place where I learned something new and delicious.

And as I take a spoonful of Turnip Boršč and savor the tangy, savory flavors, I am reminded once again of Mrs. Petrovich and the day she shared her recipe with me. It is a memory I will always cherish, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Categories

| Beet Recipes | Belarusian Recipes | Belarusian Soups | Carrot Recipes | Onion Recipes | Potato Recipes | Slavic Recipes | Sour Cream Recipes | Tomato Paste Recipes | Turnip Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients