Ukrainian borscht

Ukrainian borscht is a hearty soup that is popular in Ukraine and other Eastern European countries. It is a combination of vegetables, meat, and broth, with beets being the key ingredient that gives the soup its signature deep red colour.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef or pork, cut into small pieces
• 4 medium beets, peeled and shredded
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and shredded
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream and fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat and brown for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shredded beets, chopped carrots, chopped potatoes, and shredded cabbage. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf and tomato paste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill on top.

Note: Some variations of borscht also include other ingredients such as beans, mushrooms, or other vegetables, so feel free to customize the recipe to your liking.