What does the European beetroot soup called borscht taste like?
In this article, we're answering common questions about borscht so that you'll know all about the taste, texture and ingredients as well as how to make vegan borscht from scratch.
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What Does Borscht Taste Like?
The deep, earthy flavor of beets translates well to this warming soup. It's sweet with a balancing touch of tang, and sometimes it's slightly vinegary.
As beet is the main feature in borscht, it tastes very much like cooked beets. Recipes vary, so the other flavors in this soup depend on what's added. Typically, borscht also contains carrots, potatoes and cabbage.
Borscht Texture
Most of the time, borscht is liquidy, not thick and creamy.
However, the hunks of beetroot and other veggies give it a hearty texture.
Some people prefer to puree their borscht, which will thicken it and make it silkier.
But even borscht that isn't pureed has a certain dense quality to it from the beets.
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What Do You Eat with Borscht?
A common additive to borscht is sour cream, but of course, sour cream is not vegan.
But you could use vegan sour cream instead, which would make the dish creamier and heavier.
In some countries, borscht accompanies a variety of non-vegan items like dairy-filled pastries, meats and cheeses.
In fact, some borscht recipes even call for meat or meat stock, making them unsuitable for vegan diets (always check first before eating borscht out at a restaurant).
In the U.S., borscht is often considered a starter before dinner.
Grab a hunk of crusty artisan bread for dipping and you could even turn it into the main course.
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What Spices to Use in Borscht
Garlic, bay leaf, marjoram, salt and pepper are common spices in borscht.
You may also use fresh or dried dill, which will make it taste a bit "green," or something like nutmeg or allspice, which will match the earthiness of the beets.
There's no need to add too many spices to borscht.
You don't want to inhibit the flavor of the beets, so less can be better.
How Do You Make Authentic Borscht?
Technically, authentic borscht may have beef or chicken in it.
However, you can absolutely use vegetable stock and plant-based "dairy" products to make it the vegan way.
Authentic borscht is usually the kind that's not pureed, so try it chunky to make it European-style.
You can always add a little flour or cornstarch if you'd like it a little thicker.
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Borscht Recipe Tips
Because there are so many ways to prepare borscht, you can have a different soup every time you make it.
Blend it up to make it creamy or have it chunky like minestrone.
This video shows you how to make authentic (vegan) Ukrainian borscht.
It's so easy and tasty!
Just use vegan sour cream if you're adding it as shown.
Here are all the ingredients:
- Fresh beets
- Carrots
- Potatoes
- Fresh tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Cabbage
- Onions
- Garlic
- Dill
- Bay leaf
- Parsley
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Veggie stock
Making raw vegan borscht is another option, which you'll see in this video.
The chef garnishes her soup with kimchi, which is usually not vegan-friendly, though vegan kimchi can be purchased.
Toss the following ingredients into a blender:
- Beets
- Red bell pepper
- Celery
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Chili flakes (optional)
- Orange juice
- Black pepper
- Sea salt
- Apple cider vinegar
- Olive oil
READ ALSO: Check out our options for the best container for kimchi if you need more info about storing it in your refrigerator.
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Wrap Up
Borscht is a very flavorful beetroot soup that's perfect for cold nights.
If you see it on a restaurant menu, remember to check if it's plant-based and skip the sour cream.
Alternatively, you can make your own borscht and top it with vegan sour cream, vegan kimchi or sauerkraut.
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