introduction
Green borscht is a fresh Ukrainian soup made with spinach and herbs. It tastes bright and light. It is easy to make for lunch or dinner. This soup goes well with a simple vegetable side like easy broccoli with garlic sauce.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a healthy, quick, and tasty meal. It uses fresh greens and simple pantry items. The soup is low in fat and full of flavor. It warms you but stays light. It is good for spring and summer when greens are fresh.
how to make Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Make a clear broth first. Sauté onion and garlic in a little oil or butter. Add diced potatoes and stock. Cook until potatoes are soft. Add chopped spinach and fresh dill at the end so they stay green. Add lemon juice or a splash of vinegar for bright flavor. Serve with hard‑boiled eggs or a spoon of sour cream if you like.
Ingredients :
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 hard‑boiled eggs per bowl (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Directions :
- Heat butter or oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and pour in stock. Add bay leaf if using.
- Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer 10–15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in chopped spinach, dill, and green onions. Cook 2–4 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat. Add lemon juice or vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
- Peel and halve hard‑boiled eggs. Place eggs in bowls and ladle soup over them.
- Add a dollop of sour cream if you like.
how to serve Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Serve hot or warm. Add a hard‑boiled egg in each bowl for protein. Spoon a little sour cream on top for creaminess. Garnish with extra dill and sliced green onion. Offer dark bread or rye on the side.
You can also serve a small sweet after the meal, for example 3‑ingredient no‑bake brownie bites.
how to store Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
Let the soup cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat. If the soup thickens when cold, add a little water or stock when reheating. You can freeze the soup without the eggs and sour cream for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.
tips to make Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)
- Use fresh spinach for the best color and taste. Baby spinach works well.
- Add dill at the end to keep its bright aroma.
- Taste and adjust lemon or vinegar to keep the soup lively.
- If you like a creamier soup, blend a small portion and return it to the pot.
- Cook potatoes until just tender so they hold shape.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken pieces for a heartier soup.
- Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture.
- Add peas or green beans for extra vegetables.
- For a vegan version, use vegetable stock and skip the eggs and sour cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes. Add frozen spinach after potatoes are cooked. Thaw slightly and squeeze excess water before adding.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead?
A: Yes. Make the soup a day ahead and store in the fridge. Add eggs and sour cream just before serving.
Q: Is lemon juice necessary?
A: The acid brightens the flavor. You can use vinegar instead, but add a small amount and taste.
Q: How do I keep the soup green?
A: Do not overcook the spinach. Add it near the end and remove from heat quickly.
Q: Can I skip potatoes?
A: Yes. You can use rice or leave out starchy ingredients for a lighter soup.
Conclusion
For a classic take, you can read the Lavender & Macarons version of Green Borscht for more details and photos: Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) on Lavender & Macarons. If you want a version with chicken, see this Ukrainian green chicken soup recipe for ideas: Ukrainian Green Chicken Soup recipe on Girl and the Kitchen.