When the weather turns cold and comfort food calls, borsch (sometimes spelled borscht) is always at the top of my list. I grew up associating that deep ruby-red soup with family dinners, stories at the table, and a swirl of sour cream melting into every spoonful.
Borsch is the kind of dish that feeds both the stomach and the soul. Whether you enjoy the Ukrainian, Polish, or Russian version, borsch is known for its earthy flavor, vibrant color, and the way it tastes even better the next day.
But what is borsch, really? And why has it stood the test of time for centuries in Eastern European kitchens?
🇺🇦 What Is Borsch?
Borsch is a traditional beet-based soup found in many Eastern European cuisines, especially Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, and Lithuanian. While recipes vary by region (and even by grandma!), most include:
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Beets – The star ingredient, giving borsch its bold red color
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Cabbage
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Carrots & onions
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Potatoes
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Tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
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Garlic and dill
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Meat (optional) – Often beef shank or pork ribs, but there are plenty of vegetarian versions
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Sour cream – For that creamy finish on top
Some versions include beans, mushrooms, or even apples for a hint of sweetness. And yes, it’s often served with a side of rye bread or pampushky (Ukrainian garlic rolls).
🧑🍳 How Borsch Is Made
Making a proper pot of borsch isn’t hard—but it does take love (and time).
Basic Steps:
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Sauté onion, carrots, and beets in oil until soft
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Add broth or water, then potatoes and cabbage
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Stir in tomato paste or chopped tomatoes
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Simmer gently for 40–60 minutes
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Add garlic, dill, and vinegar or lemon juice
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Rest before serving—borsch is better after a few hours or the next day
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Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream
It’s the kind of dish that gets richer as it sits—perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
🛒 Where to Buy Authentic Borsch Ingredients
Looking to recreate the real thing? These trusted online shops sell traditional ingredients and pantry staples:
✔️ RussianFoodUSA.com
Carries Eastern European goods including beet soup bases, pickled vegetables, and rye breads.
✔️ Ukrainian East Village Restaurant (NYC)
Not an online shop, but a beloved spot where you can try authentic Ukrainian borsch if you’re in New York.
✔️ Amazon – Borsch Kit
You can find freeze-dried versions, seasoning packets, and even full borsch kits with everything prepped.
🥣 Regional Variations of Borsch
| Region | Distinct Features |
|---|---|
| Ukrainian | Thick, hearty, often includes beans and pork fat |
| Russian | Slightly lighter, served hot or cold, may include beef |
| Polish | Often served as clear beet broth (barszcz), especially at Christmas |
| Lithuanian | Chilled summer version with kefir and cucumbers (šaltibarščiai) |
Each version is special in its own way. Some are lighter and tangy, others are rich and meaty—but they all celebrate the beet at their core.
🧄 The Secret Touch: Garlic, Dill & Sour Cream
Never underestimate the power of a few herbs and a swirl of dairy. Fresh dill, finely chopped, adds that bright herbal finish. And sour cream? It’s not optional—it’s essential.
For the garlic lovers, rub a clove onto the rim of your bowl or stir it in raw at the end. That punch of heat against the sweetness of beets is pure magic.
✅ Final Thoughts: A Soup That Brings People Together
Borsch isn’t just a dish—it’s a story, passed down in handwritten recipes, served at weddings, and remembered in times of both celebration and hardship.
Whether you enjoy it with meat, keep it vegetarian, or chill it for summer, borsch is proof that humble ingredients can create unforgettable meals.
So if you’ve never made it from scratch, give it a try. Start with fresh beets, build the flavor slowly, and don’t forget the sour cream on top.
