Borshch

Borshch (also spelled borscht, borshch, or borsht) is a sour soup common in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. It is typically made with beetroot as one of the main ingredients, which gives the dish its distinctive red color. Borshch is associated with the cuisines of Ukraine, Russia, Poland, Lithuania, Romania, and other countries in the region.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in borshch is beetroot, which provides the soup's characteristic deep red color. Other common ingredients include:

• Cabbage
• Carrot
• Potato
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato paste
• Dill
• Bay leaf
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Meat (such as beef, pork, or chicken)
• Sour cream (for serving)

Preparation

Borshch is typically prepared by boiling the beetroots until they are tender, then grating or chopping them finely. The other vegetables are sautéed and then added to the beetroot broth. Meat, if used, is usually cooked separately and added to the soup towards the end of the cooking process. The soup is often seasoned with vinegar or lemon juice to enhance its sour flavor. It is traditionally served hot, with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Variations

There are many regional variations of borshch, each with its own unique ingredients and preparation methods. Some popular variations include:

• Ukrainian borshch: Often includes pork and is served with pampushky (garlic bread rolls).
• Russian borshch: May include beef and is often served with rye bread.
• Polish borshch: Known as barszcz, it is sometimes served as a clear broth with uszka (small dumplings).
• Lithuanian borshch: Known as šaltibarščiai, it is a cold version of the soup made with kefir and served with boiled potatoes.

Cultural Significance

Borshch holds a significant place in the culinary traditions of many Eastern European and Northern Asian countries. It is often associated with family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. In Ukraine, borshch is considered a national dish and is a symbol of Ukrainian culture and heritage.

Related Pages

• Ukrainian cuisine
• Russian cuisine
• Polish cuisine
• Lithuanian cuisine
• Romanian cuisine
• Beetroot
• Soup