Cold prepared beetroot borscht

Cold prepared red beet borscht

Welcome to the world of delicious red beet borscht, a traditional recipe that not only refreshes but also offers numerous health benefits! This fermented drink is a true elixir, packed with vitamins and minerals, ideal for the warm season and for improving digestion. Preparing it cold preserves all the properties of the ingredients, providing you with a revitalizing beverage. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Fermentation time: 3-7 days
Total time: 3-7 days
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 1 kg red beet
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh beer yeast (about the size of a walnut)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of dill
- About 2.5 liters of spring water
- Salt (optional, only if you don't want a healing effect)

Necessary utensils

- A 3-liter glass jar
- A wooden spoon
- A small plate or a lid to cover the jar

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the red beet. Cut the beet into small cubes for efficient fermentation. Make sure to use fresh, quality beets, as this will influence the taste of the borscht.

2. Garlic: Peel the head of garlic and cut each clove into four pieces. Garlic will not only add a unique flavor but is also a powerful antioxidant.

3. Yeast: Crumble the fresh beer yeast between your fingers. This will aid in fermenting the drink, converting the natural sugars in the beet into lactic acid, giving the borscht a distinct flavor.

4. Herbs: Finely chop the parsley and dill. These herbs will add an extra freshness to your borscht.

5. The final layer: In the glass jar, add all the prepared ingredients: cubed beets, garlic, yeast, parsley, and dill. Fill the jar with spring water, leaving a little space at the top for the gases produced during fermentation to expand. Mix well with a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients.

6. Fermentation: Cover the jar with a small plate or lid, but do not seal it tightly. The jar should be kept in a warm place, near a heat source, to stimulate fermentation. Shake the jar daily to help distribute the ingredients evenly.

7. Tasting: After 3-4 days, start checking the taste of the borscht. If it is fermented enough for your liking, strain the drink and pour it into bottles. If you prefer a stronger taste, let it sit for a few more days, shaking it daily.

8. Storage: Once the borscht is ready, keep it in the refrigerator to stop fermentation. You can consume 3 cups a day, before main meals, for a healing effect.

Nutritional benefits

Red beet borscht is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B, and C, as well as essential minerals like iron and potassium. Regular consumption helps detoxify the body, improves digestion, and strengthens the immune system. It is also beneficial for liver and gallbladder health, having cleansing properties.

Useful tips

- Use organic beets, free from pesticides, for better taste and to benefit from all nutritional properties.
- If you want a spicier borscht, you can add some chili peppers.
- Experiment with different herbs like marjoram or thyme to customize the flavor of the borscht.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned beets?: We do not recommend using canned beets, as they will not ferment properly and will not provide the same nutritional benefits.

2. How can I tell if the borscht is fermented correctly?: The borscht should have a slightly sour taste and a fresh aroma. If you smell an unpleasant odor, contamination may have occurred.

3. Can I freeze the borscht?: It is recommended not to freeze the borscht, as freezing can alter its texture and flavor. Consume it fresh!

Serving and combinations

Red beet borscht can be enjoyed on its own but can also be an excellent ingredient in various soups, adding a unique flavor. It can be used as a base for a salad dressing or added to smoothies for an extra nutrient boost. A delicious combination is with a slice of rye bread and goat cheese.

Personal note

This red beet borscht recipe has been passed down from generation to generation. I remember the warm summer days when my grandmother prepared this drink and taught us about its benefits. It is a simple recipe, yet full of tradition and health, bringing family together around the table. So, don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy a delicious and healthy red beet borscht together.

Enjoy preparing this red beet borscht and let it become part of your daily health routine!