Borscht with new potatoes

Borscht with new potatoes and fresh vegetables

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of spring flavors! Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for borscht with new potatoes and fresh vegetables, a delight that will bring a touch of sunshine to your plate. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely delicious, perfect for warm days when you want to enjoy a light and comforting meal.

A brief story about borscht
Borscht, this sour soup, has deep roots in culinary traditions, with a rich and varied history. It is a dish that has been prepared in many cultures, each contributing its own ingredients and spices. Although today’s recipe is simple and accessible, borscht has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

Necessary ingredients
- 500 g new potatoes
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 2 large carrots
- 1 small celery
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- ½ bunch of dill
- ½ bunch of parsley
- 1.5 l borscht (or 1 l if you prefer a more sour borscht)
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Yogurt (for serving)
- Salt, to taste

Useful tips about ingredients
- New potatoes: Choose small, thin-skinned potatoes, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. Make sure they are fresh with a firm texture.
- Vegetables: It is important to use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve a savory taste. If you have access to a garden, feel free to use vegetables you’ve harvested yourself!
- Lovage and parsley: These herbs not only add wonderful flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish. Fresh lovage is essential for achieving the distinct aroma of borscht.

Preparation technique
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the potatoes, carrots, celery, and parsley roots, then chop them finely. The green onions should be sliced into thin rings. These steps are essential to ensure even cooking of the vegetables.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and, once heated, add the green onions, carrots, celery, and parsley. Let them sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, to release their flavors.

3. Adding the potatoes: Once the vegetables begin to soften, add the chopped potatoes. Cover everything with water, ensuring the vegetables are well covered, and let it boil. If you have a Zepter pot, it is ideal for preserving nutrients and flavors.

4. Boiling the borscht: After about 15-20 minutes, when the potatoes are almost cooked, add the borscht. If you want a sourer borscht, add one liter, and if you prefer a milder taste, go for 1.5 liters.

5. Preparing the eggs: In a bowl, beat one egg with a little cold borscht and add a cup of hot broth from the pot with vegetables. This will help temper the egg, so it doesn’t coagulate suddenly when added to the soup. Pour this mixture into the pot, stirring well to form delicious curds.

6. Finalizing the borscht: Add the remaining borscht, salt to taste, and the remaining beaten egg. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the chopped lovage and parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving
Borscht is served hot, with a spoonful of yogurt on top, for a creamy contrast that will bring an explosion of flavors. The yogurt not only enhances the taste but also adds a touch of freshness.

Combination suggestions
This borscht can be served alongside a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked, or with a seasonal salad, such as a tomato and cucumber salad. Additionally, a refreshing drink, like a fruit compote or mint tea, can perfectly complement this meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables?: While fresh vegetables are preferable, you can also use frozen vegetables if necessary, being careful to add them closer to the end of the cooking process.
- How can I vary the recipe?: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to diversify the flavor. You can also replace the borscht with vinegar for a quicker version.
- Is borscht healthy?: This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, providing plenty of nutritional benefits. It is an excellent choice for a light and healthy meal, with a low calorie content.

Regardless of the occasion, this borscht with new potatoes and fresh vegetables will surely be a delicious choice! Enjoy every spoonful and savor the flavors of spring in every bowl. Bon appétit!