Borscht with Pork Ribs

Borscht with pork ribs is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for a comforting meal. The combination of tender pork ribs and a medley of vegetables creates a savory and aromatic broth. The rich red color from the beets not only makes it visually appealing but also adds a slight sweetness to the dish. Fresh cabbage brings a mild crunch while potatoes offer a satisfying texture. The tomato paste adds depth to the flavor, complementing the earthiness of the beets. Carrots and turnips contribute to the heartiness and add subtle sweetness. Adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the soup, making it irresistible. This borscht is both traditional and versatile, as you can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish with a slice of fresh rye bread for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Pork ribs
• Potatoes
• Beets
• Fresh cabbage
• Tomato paste
• Carrots
• Turnips
• Parsley root

Spices and Sauces:

• Onion
• Sugar
• Salt
• Butter
• Water

Preparation Time

Total time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by boiling the pork ribs. This will form the base of your soup, infusing it with rich, meaty flavors.
2. In a separate saucepan, sauté grated beets with some tomato paste and butter. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. After a few minutes, add grated carrots and turnips to the beets. Stir everything together for even cooking.
4. Slice fresh cabbage into thin strips and finely chop the onion. Add these to the sautéing vegetable mixture.
5. Pour in some broth from the boiled ribs to cover the vegetables. Let it simmer until the vegetables become semi-soft.
6. Grate a piece of parsley root and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Incorporate these into the vegetable and broth mixture.
7. Add more broth as needed to ensure all ingredients are submerged, then simmer until all vegetables are tender.
8. Season the soup with salt and sugar, adjusting to taste. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the sweetness of the beets.
9. Once done, serve hot, accompanied by pork ribs. Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
10. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor and color.
11. Allow the flavors to meld, which might mean letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.
12. Use a ladle to gently stir the soup, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning one last time, adding more salt or sugar if needed.
14. If the soup seems too thick, you can add more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
15. For a richer flavor, you might want to cook the soup longer on low heat after everything is added.
16. As the soup simmers, skim off any foam that might form on the surface for a clearer broth.
17. Consider adding a splash of vinegar if you prefer a tangier soup.
18. Prepare your serving bowls by warming them up slightly, which keeps the soup warmer longer.
19. Garnish with additional herbs or even a slice of lemon for a burst of freshness.
20. Enjoy your borscht piping hot with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.

Tips

• Substitute turnips with parsnips for a slightly different flavor.
• Use red wine vinegar if you prefer a sharp tang in your soup.
• Add a bay leaf while cooking for enhanced flavor.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian Borscht: Omit the pork ribs and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Chicken Borscht: Replace pork ribs with chicken pieces for a lighter soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a slice of crusty rye bread or garlic bread.
• Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill.
• Serve alongside a chilled beet salad for a full beet-themed meal.

Best Places

1. Borscht Factory - A cozy spot offering traditional borscht with an array of toppings. Location: 1207 S Jackson St, Seattle, USA.
2. Red Beet Table - Known for its innovative takes on classic borscht recipes. Location: 45 Friedrichstrasse, Berlin, Germany.
3. Soup & Cheers - Offers a wide variety of soups including a delectable borscht. Location: 12 Old Street, London, UK.
4. Borscht Bar - Famous for its hearty and rich borscht served with fresh herbs. Location: 192 Mayakovskogo Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia.
5. Hearty Spoon Café - A perfect blend of cozy atmosphere and authentic borscht. Location: 37 Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes, France.
6. Eastern Flavors Deli - Known for its Eastern European delicacies, with a focus on borscht. Location: 22 Bedford St, Sydney, Australia.
7. Plates of Tradition - An authentic experience with perfectly crafted borscht. Location: 8 Váci utca, Budapest, Hungary.
8. Soup Symphony - A must-visit for borscht enthusiasts looking for quality and taste. Location: 5 Via della Vite, Rome, Italy.
9. The Borscht Kitchen - Serves a variety of borscht variants from different regions. Location: 356 Yonge St, Toronto, Canada.
10. Golden Beet Bistro - Offers a rich, red borscht with a creative twist. Location: 50 Rue St. Denis, Paris, France.