Savory Chicken and Beet Borscht

Borscht is a delightful Eastern European soup that combines the earthy flavors of beets with the savory taste of chicken. This recipe includes a blend of fresh and pickled vegetables, seasoned with herbs to create a rich, flavorful broth. The vibrant color of the beets makes this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a versatile recipe, with roots in rustic peasant cuisine, elevated by modern twists. Easy to prepare, this soup can be a comfort food staple in your household. Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream for an authentic touch. The tanginess from the vinegar adds zest, while the tender chicken provides a satisfying bite. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress your guests with an unusual yet hearty meal. This chicken borscht is sure to become a favorite recipe in your collection.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 chicken thighs
500 g cooked beets
150 g sauerkraut
1 carrot
2 onions
4 cloves of garlic
100 g tomato paste

Spices and Sauces

2 tablespoons of vinegar
Salt to taste
Sugar to taste

Preparation Time

45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender.
Marinate Beets: While the chicken cooks, grate the cooked beets and chop 2 garlic cloves. Pour 2 tablespoons of vinegar over them and let sit to marinate.
Prep Vegetables: Grate the carrot and chop the onions into thin half-moons. Finely chop the remaining garlic cloves.
Saute Vegetables: In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat and sauté the grated carrots, chopped onions, and garlic until the vegetables turn a light golden color.
Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste with the sautéed vegetables and cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Prepare Broth: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the sauerkraut to the broth (chop it finely beforehand) and let simmer.
Shred Chicken: When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Combine Ingredients: Briefly fry the shredded chicken, then add it to the pan with the carrot, onion, and tomato mixture, and cook together.
Simmer Borscht: Transfer the sautéed mixture to the pot with the simmering sauerkraut. Add the marinated beets and simmer together for a little while longer.
Season to Taste: Add salt, sugar, and additional vinegar as needed for your preferred flavor balance.
Serve: Ladle the borscht into bowls and top with a generous spoonful of sour cream for a creamy contrast. Enjoy your homemade borscht warm for the best flavor.

Tips

Beets: Pre-cooked beets save time, but you can also use fresh ones by boiling them until tender.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of dill or a dash of black pepper for additional flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 240 per serving
Protein: 18g
Fats: 9g
Carbs: 28g

Variations

Vegan Borscht: Replace chicken with more vegetables like potatoes and omit sour cream.
Spicy Borscht: Add chili flakes or a hot sauce for a fiery kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with freshly baked rye bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for added freshness.
Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Best Places

Katz's Delicatessen - Renowned for its Eastern European cuisine and savory borscht, this New York deli is a staple. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
Restaurant Mari Vanna - Offers a cozy Russian dining experience with a modern twist. Location: 116 Knightsbridge, London, United Kingdom.
Red Square Restaurant - Known for its authentic Russian menu and stylish ambiance. Location: 325 S Saginaw St, Flint, USA.
Moscow Cafe - A taste of Russia in every bite, with a welcoming atmosphere. Location: 5 Karl Marx St, Moscow, Russia.
Borscht and Beyond - This spot excels in delivering traditional borscht with a contemporary flair. Location: 14 St Paul St, Montreal, Canada.
The Russian Tea Room - A classic dining destination offering an upscale experience. Location: 150 W 57th St, New York, USA.
Matryoshka Restaurant - Offers a homely dining atmosphere with rich flavors. Location: 9 Powis Place, Aberdeen, Scotland.
Ukrainian Borscht House - Celebrates Ukrainian culinary traditions right in the heart of the city. Location: 347 E 7th St, New York, USA.
Café Pushkin - Known for an elegant setting and robust Russian menu. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, 26А, Moscow, Russia.
Borschlandia - A borscht-specialty bistro serving innovative recipes. Location: 734 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Canada.