Beet Soup (Without Potatoes and Cucumbers) – A Refreshing and Flavorful Delight

Beet soup, commonly known as "Svokolnik" or "Cold Beet Soup", is a dish bursting with color and flavor. Traditionally enjoyed in Eastern European cuisine, this soup is especially popular during warmer months but can be enjoyed year-round. It’s light yet satisfying, and this particular version excludes potatoes and cucumbers, resulting in a simpler but equally delicious version of the classic dish.

This beet soup is ideal for those who appreciate the earthy sweetness of beets combined with the freshness of seasonal vegetables. The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent option for both experienced cooks and beginners.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing beet soup without potatoes or cucumbers, using ingredients that add richness and brightness to the dish. The end result is a beautiful and refreshing soup that can be served chilled or warm, depending on your preference.

Ingredients

For the base of the beet soup:

• 4 medium-sized beets (raw or pre-cooked, depending on preference)
• 1 large carrot
• 1 small onion
• 1 clove of garlic (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (such as sunflower or olive oil)
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) of vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice (for tanginess)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving and garnish:

• 3-4 radishes, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill (chopped)
• Green onions (chopped)
• A dollop of sour cream or yogurt (optional)
• A slice of rye or sourdough bread (optional, for serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Beets
If using raw beets, begin by thoroughly washing them to remove any dirt. Boil the beets in a large pot with enough water to cover them. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until they become tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the water and set the beets aside to cool slightly.
Alternatively, if using pre-cooked beets, you can skip this boiling step and proceed to peel and grate them. Pre-cooked beets are available in most grocery stores and can save time.

2. Peel and Grate the Vegetables
Once the boiled beets have cooled enough to handle, peel the skin off. Grate the beets into thin, long strips or chop them into small cubes, depending on your preferred texture for the soup.
Next, peel and grate the carrot and finely chop the onion and garlic (if using).

3. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become soft and translucent. This step enhances the flavor of the soup by caramelizing the natural sweetness of the onion. Add the grated carrot and stir for a few more minutes.

4. Add the Beets and Broth
Once the onions and carrots are softened, add the grated beets to the saucepan. Stir the mixture, allowing the flavors to combine for a minute or two. Then, pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add Vinegar or Lemon Juice
For a slight tang, add the vinegar or lemon juice. This ingredient balances the sweetness of the beets and brings out the bright, fresh flavors in the soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow all the ingredients to meld together. If desired, you can blend a portion of the soup to achieve a creamier texture, but this step is optional. The soup should be thick but not overly heavy.

6. Cool and Serve
Beet soup is typically enjoyed chilled, especially during hot weather. To serve cold, allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours. If you prefer, you can also serve the soup warm on a cooler day.
Before serving, garnish the soup with sliced radishes, fresh dill, and chopped green onions. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess and serve with a slice of rye or sourdough bread.

Tips for Customizing Your Beet Soup

This beet soup is highly versatile, allowing for several variations depending on your preferences and what ingredients you have on hand. Below are a few ideas on how to customize your soup:

• Add a touch of sweetness: If you enjoy a slightly sweeter soup, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the tang of the vinegar.
• Include more veggies: While this recipe excludes potatoes and cucumbers, you can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes to increase the depth of flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh dill is the most common herb in beet soup, but parsley or cilantro can also add a different flavor twist. Feel free to experiment with various herbs according to your taste.
• Use different broths: While vegetable broth is a great base, you can also experiment with mushroom broth or even plain water, which will allow the beet flavors to stand out more distinctly.

Serving Suggestions

Beet soup can be a standalone dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

• Bread: Serve with a hearty slice of rye bread or sourdough, either toasted or fresh, to complement the earthy flavor of the beets.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds richness and a creamy texture to the soup, balancing the earthy flavors of the beets.
• Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can be used as a garnish for an extra burst of freshness and color.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking for a new recipe to add to your weekly meal rotation, this beet soup is a fantastic choice. Its vibrant color and balanced flavor profile make it a visually stunning and delightful dish to serve to friends and family.

Beet soup, without potatoes or cucumbers, offers a fresh and modern take on a traditional favorite. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it chilled during a hot summer day or warm on a cozy evening, this soup is a true celebration of beets' natural sweetness and vibrant color. Garnished with fresh herbs, radishes, and a hint of tang, it’s a dish that will surely impress anyone at your table.

By following the steps in this recipe, you’ll create a beautiful, delicious beet soup that’s simple, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. Enjoy your culinary creation!