Beetroot soup with potatoes

Beetroot soup with potatoes: An explosion of flavors and colors

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

If you are looking for a healthy soup recipe, packed with vitamins and a distinctive taste, you have come to the right place! Beetroot soup with potatoes is a traditional dish that brings together the fresh flavors of vegetables and the natural sweetness of beets. This soup is not only delicious but also full of health benefits, being an excellent source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.

Basic ingredients:

- 2 pieces of boiled beetroot with skin
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 8 potatoes
- 4 tablespoons of peeled diced tomatoes in tomato sauce
- Salt to taste
- Dried lovage, fresh dill, and dried parsley
- Borscht to taste

Cooking time: Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by boiling the beetroot with skin. This will retain the juice and flavor, giving your dish a vibrant color. Once the beetroot is boiled, let it cool slightly, then peel and cut it into cubes. If you prefer, you can grate it and boil it together with the other vegetables.

2. Cleaning and cutting the vegetables
Clean all the vegetables: onion, carrot, bell pepper, and other root vegetables. Wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities. The onion, carrot, and bell pepper should be chopped into small cubes, while the celery, parsley, and parsnip can be left whole or cut into cubes, depending on your preference.

3. Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and bring the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, and bell pepper) to a boil. Then add the celery, parsley, and parsnip. Don't forget to add a tablespoon of salt, which will help enhance the flavors.

4. Adding the potatoes
After about 10 minutes of boiling, add the diced potatoes. This step is essential to achieve a pleasant consistency for the soup. Let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.

5. Adding the beets and tomatoes
Once the potatoes have started to soften, add the beetroot and the diced tomatoes in tomato sauce. These ingredients will add a sweet-and-sour flavor and a vibrant color to your soup.

6. Finalizing the soup
About 5 minutes before the soup is ready, add the borscht (either from a jar or a packet) to taste. This will give a sour flavor, typical of soups. Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped herbs (lovage, dill, and parsley), which will enhance the aroma.

7. Serving
The soup can be served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for added creaminess. You can also add croutons or fresh bread to complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- Fresh root vegetables: Make sure the vegetables used are fresh and of good quality, as they will influence the final taste of the soup.
- Borscht: You can adjust the amount of borscht according to your preferences. If you like a more sour soup, add more borscht.
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables or spices, such as hot pepper or even a bit of garlic, for a more intense flavor.
- Serving: Beetroot soup pairs excellently with a cabbage salad or warm polenta for a complete meal.

Nutritional benefits
Beetroot is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium. It helps improve blood circulation and has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Additionally, beetroot soup contains a lot of fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining overall well-being.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use canned beetroot?
Yes, you can use canned beetroot, but the taste will be different. Fresh beetroot has a more intense flavor.

- Is beetroot soup suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

- How can I store the soup for later consumption?
Beetroot soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use, but the texture of the vegetables may be affected.

In conclusion, beetroot soup with potatoes is a simple yet flavorful and colorful recipe that brings a touch of joy to every plate. Don't hesitate to try it and enjoy its nutritional benefits! Enjoy your meal!