Spinach soup

Sour Spinach Soup with Borscht – A Healthy Delicacy for Fasting Days

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Sour spinach soup with borscht is a traditional recipe that brings a touch of freshness and health on fasting days. Spinach, with its wealth of vitamins and minerals, becomes the star of this soup, while the sour taste of borscht makes it truly special. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing adjustments based on available ingredients or individual preferences.

History of Spinach Soup

Soup is a staple dish in many culinary cultures, with deep roots in gastronomic traditions. Spinach, used since ancient times, has been appreciated not only for its taste but also for its numerous nutritional benefits. Combined with borscht, this ingredient becomes an excellent choice for a nourishing meal, especially during fasting periods when the body needs essential nutrients.

Required Ingredients

- 2 kg fresh green spinach
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 onions
- 2 carrots
- 100 g frozen vegetables (green and red peppers, celery, parsnip, parsley)
- 1 liter borscht
- 100 g tomato paste or juice (optional, for a touch of color and flavor)
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt, to taste

Step by Step for a Perfect Soup

1. Preparing the Spinach: Start by cleaning the spinach. Remove the thicker stems and wash it well under cold running water to eliminate any impurities. Then, place the spinach in a pot of boiling water and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This step will help preserve the vibrant green color and nutrients.

2. Draining and Chopping the Spinach: After boiling, remove the spinach from the pot and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Drain it well and chop it finely.

3. Preparing the Vegetables: Clean and chop the onion, carrots, and potatoes. You can use a knife to dice them or a food processor to save time.

4. Boiling the Vegetables: In a large pot, add salted water and put the chopped vegetables (potatoes, onion, and carrots) to boil. Let them cook over medium heat until tender, about 15 minutes.

5. Adding the Spinach: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chopped spinach and frozen vegetables to the pot. Allow everything to boil together for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Boiling the Borscht: In another pot, boil the borscht for a few minutes. It is important to add warm borscht to the soup to avoid disturbing it.

7. Finalizing the Soup: Finally, add the boiled borscht to the pot with the soup, stirring well. You can also add the tomato paste or juice if you desire a richer flavor. Season with salt to taste.

8. Serving: The spinach soup is served hot, but it is also delicious cold, especially on hot summer days. It can be garnished with a bit of freshly chopped parsley or a teaspoon of plant-based cream for added creaminess.

Practical Tips

- Boiling the Spinach: Do not boil the spinach too long, as it will lose its nutrients and color.
- Frozen Vegetables: If you do not have fresh vegetables, frozen ones are an excellent choice and can add an interesting texture to the soup.
- Variations: You have the option to add noodles or rice. However, keep in mind that these may thicken the soup too much, so adjust the quantity according to your preferences.
- Oil: Adding a splash of olive oil at the end can enhance the soup's flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and calcium. Spinach is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for a healthy diet, especially during fasting periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of pepper or a few peppercorns to the pot during boiling.

3. Is spinach soup suitable for children?
Yes, spinach soup is healthy and can be adapted for children by reducing the spices.

4. What other dishes pair well with spinach soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or homemade bread. Additionally, a refreshing tomato-based drink or herbal tea would be excellent alongside it.

Sour spinach soup with borscht is not only a healthy choice but also comforting. I invite you to try it and explore this flavorful recipe that brings a touch of greenery and freshness to every bowl. Enjoy your meal!