Russian National Soup. Recipe
Russian National Soup, also known as Borscht, is a traditional dish that originated in Ukraine but became very popular in Russia. This hearty soup is made with a variety of vegetables and usually includes beets as its main ingredient. Borscht is not only delicious but also has a vibrant red color, which makes it visually appealing. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of dark rye bread.
Fun fact: Borscht has been a staple in Russian cuisine for centuries and has even been mentioned in Russian literature. It is said to be a symbol of Russian hospitality and is often served to guests.
Now, let's dive into the recipe for Russian National Soup, Borscht:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of pork, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
- 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of Chinese sauce (you can use soy sauce as a substitute)
- A pinch of pepper
- 1/2 cup of hot water
- Flour, for thickening
- Milk, for moistening the flour
- 3 medium-sized beets, peeled and shredded
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 small cabbage, shredded
- 4 cups of beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced pork and let it fry for about 10 minutes until cooked through and slightly browned.
2. Add the sliced onion to the pot and let it fry together with the pork until it becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms, finely chopped celery, Chinese sauce, and a pinch of pepper. Mix everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the hot water to moisten the mixture and cover the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the pork is tender.
4. While the meat is simmering, prepare the thickening agent. In a separate bowl, mix flour with a little milk to create a smooth paste. Set it aside for later use.
5. Once the pork is tender, add the shredded beets, cubed potatoes, grated carrots, and shredded cabbage to the pot. Stir in the beef or vegetable broth and tomato paste. Bring the soup to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes until all the vegetables are cooked through and impart their flavors into the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. In the meantime, prepare the garlic mixture. In a small bowl, mince the garlic cloves and mix them with a pinch of salt. Set it aside.
8. After the soup has simmered for the appropriate time, gradually add small portions of the flour and milk mixture, stirring well after each addition. This will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.
9. Finally, add the minced garlic mixture to the pot and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Serve the Borscht hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Accompany it with a slice of dark rye bread for an authentic Russian dining experience.
Borscht is not the only Russian soup known for its deliciousness. There are several other similar dishes you might enjoy:
1. Solyanka - A thick and hearty soup made with various kinds of meat (such as beef, pork, and sausage), pickles, and a tomato-based broth. It is typically served with sour cream.
2. Ukha - A fish soup made with freshwater fish, such as salmon or trout. It is flavored with dill and served with a slice of lemon.
3. Shchi - A cabbage soup that can be made with either meat or vegetarian. It is flavored with various vegetables and often served with a dollop of sour cream.
Russian cuisine is rich in delicious soups, and each dish has its own unique flavors and characteristics. So, don't hesitate to explore these other options and expand your culinary horizons. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful flavors of Russian soups!
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