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Borscht Soup with Beef

Hearty Borscht Soup with Beef for Cozy Nights In

This hearty Borscht Soup with Beef combines earthy beets, tender short ribs, and fresh vegetables for a warm, comforting dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 2 lbs Bone-in Short Ribs Infuses rich flavor into the soup; use bone-in for the best collagen extraction.
  • 16 cups Water The essential base for your broth; opt for high-quality water to ensure great taste.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; dice finely for a well-blended taste.
  • 3 medium Beets The star ingredient that gives borscht its vibrant color and earthy sweetness; grate for even cooking.
  • 2 medium Carrots Brings natural sweetness and texture; chop small or grate for quick incorporation.
  • 2 cups Cabbage Adds a wonderful crunch; shred for quick cooking.
  • 2 medium Potatoes Adds heartiness to the soup; dice into cubes for consistent cooking time.
For Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Boosts acidity and umami; enhances the soup's complexity.
  • 1 tbsp Salt Essential for flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of your base.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Balances the acidity from the beets and tomatoes; start with a small amount to taste.
For Freshness
  • 1 bunch Parsley Fresh herb that brightens the dish; chop for easy mixing.
  • 1 bunch Dill Enhances the flavor profile significantly; chop to release its aromatic oils.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Adds creaminess and tanginess; optional for Whole30 or dairy-free lifestyles.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preheating a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the bone-in short ribs and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust.
  2. Transfer the seared ribs into a large pot and add 16 cups of good-quality water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low. Allow to simmer for about 2 hours.
  3. While the broth simmers, finely dice the onion, and grate the carrots and beets.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté the diced onions for about 10-15 minutes until translucent and slightly golden. Add the grated carrots and beets, cooking for an additional 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and sugar into the sautéed vegetable mixture, continuing to cook for another 10 minutes.
  6. After the broth has simmered for 2 hours, add your diced potatoes and shredded cabbage. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Add the sautéed mixture of onions, carrots, and beets, along with the chopped parsley and dill into the pot. Allow to simmer for an extra 10 minutes.
  8. Carefully remove the short ribs from the broth. Shred the tender meat from the bones and return to the soup. Let sit covered for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and an extra sprinkle of fresh dill.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1200mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let your soup sit covered for 10-15 minutes after cooking. It can also be made a day in advance; it tastes even better the next day.

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