Borscht, a hearty beetroot soup, boasts a rich history originating from Eastern Europe. Traditionally made with beef or pork broth, it's flavored with a variety of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Its vibrant red hue and robust flavors make it a beloved dish, often enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream or a slice of rye bread. The recipe has evolved over centuries, reflecting the culinary traditions of the regions where it's enjoyed.

Ingredients:

- 4 medium beetroots, peeled and grated

- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

- 2 carrots, peeled and grated

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth

- 2 cups shredded cabbage

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Sour cream and fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Method:

- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

- Add grated beetroots, carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes.

- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add shredded cabbage and tomato paste.

- Season with salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

Beetroots:

  - Calories: Approximately 43 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 9.56g

  - Protein: 1.61g

  - Fat: 0.17g

  - Sodium: 78mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, folate (vitamin B9), and manganese.

  - Minerals: Contains iron, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, which may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Potatoes:

  - Calories: Approximately 87 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 20.13g

  - Protein: 1.87g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Benefits: Provides energy, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall health.

Carrots:

  - Calories: Approximately 41 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 9.58g

  - Protein: 0.93g

  - Fat: 0.24g

  - Sodium: 69mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Extremely rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, and vitamin K1.

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Benefits: Supports eye health, immune function, and skin health due to its high beta-carotene content and antioxidant properties.

Onion:

  - Calories: Approximately 40 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 9.34g

  - Protein: 1.1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 4mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and folate (vitamin B9).

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Benefits: Provides flavor and aroma to dishes, along with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic:

  - Calories: Approximately 149 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 33.06g

  - Protein: 6.36g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 17mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and iron.

Benefits: Offers immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular benefits.

Beef or Vegetable Broth:

  - Nutritional composition varies depending on ingredients and preparation method.

  - Typically provides protein, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to overall nutrition and flavor of the soup.

Shredded Cabbage:

  - Calories: Approximately 25 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 5.8g

  - Protein: 1.28g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 18mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate (vitamin B9).

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, manganese, and calcium.

Benefits: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Tomato Paste:

  - Calories: Approximately 82 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 17.68g

  - Protein: 4.32g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 22mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin K, and various B vitamins like niacin (vitamin B3) and folate (vitamin B9).

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Benefits: Provides rich tomato flavor and antioxidants like lycopene.

Olive Oil:

  - Calories: Approximately 884 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 100g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E and vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron, calcium, and potassium.

Benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, beneficial for heart health and inflammation.

Red Wine Vinegar:

  - Calories: Approximately 20 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.06g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 8mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains small amounts of potassium.

Benefits: Adds tangy flavor and may offer some health benefits due to its antioxidant properties.

Salt:

  - Consumed in small amounts, negligible calorie contribution.

  - Provides sodium, essential for electrolyte balance and nerve function.

  - Excessive intake may contribute to high blood pressure in some individuals.

Pepper:

  - Negligible calorie contribution.

  - Contains antioxidants like piperine, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

  - Adds flavor and spice without added sodium.

Sour Cream:

  - Calories: Approximately 193 calories per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 4.14g

  - Protein: 2.07g

  - Fat: 19g

  - Sodium: 20mg

  - Cholesterol: 81mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin B12, and riboflavin (vitamin B2).

  - Minerals: Contains calcium, phosphorus, and selenium.

Benefits: Adds richness and creaminess to dishes, along with vitamins and minerals.

Fresh Dill:

  - Negligible calorie contribution.

  - Contains vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate (vitamin B9).

  - Provides minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.

  - Offers antioxidant properties and may have digestive benefits.

  - Adds freshness and aroma to dishes as a garnish.