Beetroot Cold Soup with Mustard

This refreshing beetroot cold soup with mustard is a delightful option for warm summer days. It is a vibrant, colorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the tanginess of kefir and a hint of mustard. The soup is full of fresh vegetables, including cucumbers, radishes, and greens, which add a satisfying crunch and flavor. Hard-boiled eggs enrich the soup with protein, and the addition of sour cream provides a creamy texture. The recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a light lunch or an elegant starter. Beetroot cold soup is also quite nutritious, packing a variety of vitamins and minerals. It can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs by using dairy-free substitutes or adjusting the spice level. Paired with crusty bread or a side salad, this dish is sure to impress. Chill it properly before serving for the best experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 jar (750 ml) marinated beets
1.5 liters kefir
1 large cucumber
300 g radishes
4 hard-boiled eggs
2 tablespoons sour cream
A bunch of chives
A bunch of dill

Spices:

2 teaspoons mustard
Salt
Sugar
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by finely slicing the cucumber and radishes into thin strips.
Chop the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces to distribute the flavor evenly.
Finely chop the dill and chives, enhancing the soup with their fresh, herbal scent.
Combine the chopped vegetables and herbs in a large pot.
Carefully add the marinated beets to the pot, stirring gently to mix them with the other ingredients.
Add two tablespoons of sour cream to the pot for a creamy consistency.
Stir in the mustard, which adds a robust flavor that balances the sweetness of the beets.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to taste.
Pour the kefir over the mixture, which acts as the base of the soup, and stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
Once mixed, place the pot in the refrigerator to let the soup chill.
Ensure it is properly chilled before serving, as this enhances the flavors.
Adjust the seasoning if needed just before serving to suit your preferences.
Serve the soup in chilled bowls for an optimal dining experience.
Garnish with extra fresh dill or a sprinkle of chives for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy your refreshing beetroot cold soup with a slice of crusty bread.
Experiment with the addition of horseradish for an extra zing.
Use a dairy-free kefir substitute to make the soup vegan-friendly.
Customize the soup by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Enjoy this refreshing dish on warm days or as a vibrant starter for dinner parties.

Tips

Chilling: Make sure to refrigerate the soup for at least an hour before serving for the best flavor.
Substitutions: You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a creamier texture.
Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor. Do not skip them!
Adjusting spice levels: Add more mustard or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Protein: 8 g
Fats: 5 g
Carbs: 16 g

Variations

Vegan Version: Use a plant-based kefir and vegan sour cream.
Gluten-Free: The soup is naturally gluten-free; just ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Extra Protein: Add cooked shrimp or diced chicken for more protein.
Extra Vegetables: Incorporate sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty rye bread for a traditional touch.
Serve as a refreshing starter for a summer barbecue.
Garnish with additional dill and a slice of lemon.

Best Places

Café Riga - Offers authentic Latvian delights and a cozy atmosphere. Location: 123 Old Town St, Riga, Latvia.
Bistro Baltic - Specializes in Baltic and Nordic cuisine. Location: 45 Central Way, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Restaurant Polska - Known for its Eastern European dishes. Location: 8 Warszawa Way, Warsaw, Poland.
Deli Helsinki - Features a fusion of Scandinavian and Baltic flavors. Location: 22 Market Square, Helsinki, Finland.
Tallinn Tavern - Provides traditional Estonian meals in a rustic setting. Location: 78 City Lane, Tallinn, Estonia.
Cafe Vilnius - Combines modern and traditional Lithuanian dishes. Location: 30 River Walk, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Krakow's Choice - Eastern European cuisine and a welcoming vibe. Location: 15 Main Ave, Krakow, Poland.
Cafe Nordic - Offers a wide range of Nordic-inspired cold dishes. Location: 50 Winter Rd, Oslo, Norway.
Helsinki Bites - Serves a variety of Finnish culinary delights. Location: 67 Helsinki St, Helsinki, Finland.
Warsaw Eatery - Known for its innovative take on Polish classics. Location: 9 Culinary Pl, Warsaw, Poland.