🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 169 (from laksa197)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa169.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/","crawl_time":1776275216,"first_indexed_time":1509468086,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,melissaknorris!\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/ s443","src_root_hash":"10720846872043626369","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Traditional Borscht Recipe - Melissa K. Norris","meta_descriptions":["This delicious, frugal and versatile traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup) will soon be a favorite. Grab the recipe here!"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal\ntraditional borscht recipe\n(aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of\nhomemade artisan bread\nor add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\nThis recipe is from my friend Anna at\nThe House and Homestead\n.\nAnna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).”\nWhy You’ll Love This Recipe\nFrugal –\nLike Anna, I love to glean wisdom on\nliving frugally\nfrom generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When\nworking with a tight budget\n, soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste.\nEasy –\nI love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my\nfrom-scratch tomato soup\n, simple\nold-fashioned ham and bean soup\n,\nGreat-Grandma’s fish stew\n, creamy\ndelicata squash soup\n, this delicious\nslow cooker cream of broccoli soup\n, and, of course,\nhearty beef stew\n.\nVersatile –\nI love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish.\nWhat Is Borscht\nOriginating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further.\nEvery home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables. \nSubscribe to Melissa K. Norris!\nGet updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox.\nWe use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our \nPrivacy Notice\n.\nIngredients\nA full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below.\nDiced Tomatoes\n– These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes.\nBeets\n– Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color. \nFresh Dill Weed\n– Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 &frac12; Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch. \nVariations & Substitutions\nAnna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch. \nButter\n– The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\nWater\n– For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or\nchicken bone broth\ncan also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I\npressure-can homemade chicken broth\n, so that’s usually what I have on hand.\nOptional Ingredients\n– You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised\nAmerican Guinea Hogs\n.\nHow to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe\nStep 1:\nSauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\nStep 2:\nAdd the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\nStep 3:\nBring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\nStep 4:\nPeel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato.\nStep 5:\nAdd the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now.\nStep 6:\nAllow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper.\nStep 7:\nServe soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or\nhomemade yogurt\nand a slice of homemade bread and butter (this\nArtisan bread\nor rye bread is equally amazing!).\nStoring and Reheating Instructions\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\nFAQs\nWhat is traditional borscht made of?\nTraditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn\nhow to grow beets\nhere). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat.\nIs borscht Russian or Ukrainian?\nBorscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish.\nWhat to serve with borscht for dinner?\nFor a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside\nhomemade artisan bread\nslathered in butter.\nOther Posts You May Enjoy\nHow to Make Bone Broth\nHow to Can Bone Broth\nSlow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup\nBean and Ham Soup Recipe\nOld-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker\nHomemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)\nDid you make this recipe?\nIf so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media\n@melissaknorris\nso I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens. \nTraditional Borscht Recipe\nMelissa Norris\nYou don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal\ntraditional borscht recipe\n(aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\n4.20\nfrom\n136\nvotes\nPrep Time\n15\nminutes\nCook Time\n20\nminutes\nTotal Time\n35\nminutes\nCourse\nSoup\nCuisine\nUkrainian\nServings\n6\nservings\nCalories\n119\nkcal\n▢\nSoup Pot\n▢\nKitchen Utensils\nknife, cutting board, etc.\n▢\n1\ncup\ncelery\ndiced\n▢\n1\ncup\nonions\ndiced\n▢\n1\ncup\ncabbage\nchopped\n▢\n2\ncloves\ngarlic\ngrated or pressed\n▢\n1\nTablespoon\nof butter\nfor sautéing onions and celery\n▢\n8\ncups\nwater\nor beef broth\/chicken broth\n▢\n1\ncan\ndiced tomatoes\n1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought\n▢\n2\nlarge\nbeets\nor 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced\n▢\n1\nlarge\ncarrots\nor 2 medium, grated\n▢\n1\nmedium\npotato\ndiced\n▢\n1\/2\ncup\nfresh dill weed\n▢\nsalt and pepper to taste\nI love\nRedmond Real Salt\n.\nUse code “Pioneering” for 15% off\n▢\nbay leaf\noptional\nSauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\nAdd the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\nBring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\nPeel the beets, carrots and potato.\nDice half the beets and grate the other half.\nGrate all the carrots.\nDice the potato.\nAdd the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now.\nAllow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat.\nStir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper.\nServe hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!)\nIngredient Substitutions:\nButter\n– The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\nWater\n– For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or\nchicken bone broth\ncan also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I\npressure-can homemade chicken broth\n, so that’s usually what I have on hand.\nOptional Ingredients\n– You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised\nAmerican Guinea Hogs\n.\nStoring and Reheating Instructions:\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\nServing:\n1.5\ncup\nCalories:\n119\nkcal\nCarbohydrates:\n23\ng\nProtein:\n4\ng\nFat:\n2\ng\nSaturated Fat:\n1\ng\nPolyunsaturated Fat:\n0.2\ng\nMonounsaturated Fat:\n1\ng\nTrans Fat:\n0.1\ng\nCholesterol:\n5\nmg\nSodium:\n138\nmg\nPotassium:\n747\nmg\nFiber:\n5\ng\nSugar:\n10\ng\nVitamin A:\n2564\nIU\nVitamin C:\n29\nmg\nCalcium:\n81\nmg\nIron:\n2\nmg\nLet us know\nhow it was!","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tr?id=179455232646561&ev=PageView%0A&noscript=1)\n\n- [Skip to main content](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#genesis-content)\n- [Skip to header right navigation](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#nav-header-right)\n- [Skip to site footer](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#site-footer)\n\n[![Melissa K. Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/cropped-logo.png)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/)\n\nMelissa K. Norris\n\n5th-generation homesteader. Helping modern women live from scratch.\n\n[Log In](https:\/\/melissa-norris.mykajabi.com\/login)\n\nMenu\n\n- [Start Here](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n- [Podcast](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/)\n- [Articles](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Natural Medicine Cabinet](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/natural-medicine-cabinet\/)\n  - [Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/recipes\/)\n  - [Food Preservation](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/food-preservation\/food-preservation-canning\/)\n  - [Gardening](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/raising-your-own-food\/gardening\/)\n  - [Homestead-Life](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/homestead-life\/)\n  - [Canning Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/canning-recipes\/)\n- [Shop]()\n  - [Books](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/mybooks\/)\n  - [Classes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/classes\/)\n  - [General Store](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/products\/)\n- [Academy](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-academy-waitlist\/)\n- [Log In](https:\/\/classes.melissaknorris.com\/login)\n- search\n\n- [Start Here](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n- [Podcast](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/)\n- [Articles](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Natural Medicine Cabinet](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/natural-medicine-cabinet\/)\n  - [Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/recipes\/)\n  - [Food Preservation](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/food-preservation\/food-preservation-canning\/)\n  - [Gardening](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/raising-your-own-food\/gardening\/)\n  - [Homestead-Life](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/homestead-life\/)\n  - [Canning Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/canning-recipes\/)\n- [Shop]()\n  - [Books](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/mybooks\/)\n  - [Classes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/classes\/)\n  - [General Store](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/products\/)\n- [Academy](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-academy-waitlist\/)\n- [Log In](https:\/\/classes.melissaknorris.com\/login)\n- search\n\n[Home](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/) » [Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/recipes\/)\n\n![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg)\n\n# Traditional Borscht Recipe\nBy [Melissa Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button \"Share on Facebook\")\n\n[Tweet](https:\/\/twitter.com\/share?url=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&text=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe \"Share on Twitter\")\n\n[Pin](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&media=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nNovember 20, 2019\n\nUpdated on: May 27, 2025\n\nThis post may contain affiliate links, please read [our disclosure policy.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/disclosure-disclaimer\/)\n\n[Jump to Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#wprm-recipe-container-12789)\n\nYou don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal **traditional borscht recipe** (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of **[homemade artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\n\n![Bird's eye view of traditional Ukranian borscht served in bowls and garnished with sour cream.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Bird_s-Eye_MKN-1024x683.jpg)\n\nThis recipe is from my friend Anna at [**The House and Homestead**](https:\/\/thehouseandhomestead.com\/)**.** Anna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).”\n\n![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/HomesteadGifts-1.jpg)\n\nTable of Contents\\[Hide\\]\\[Show\\]\n\n- [Why You’ll Love This Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-why-you-ll-love-this-recipe)\n- [What Is Borscht](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-what-is-borscht)\n- [Ingredients](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-ingredients)\n- [Variations & Substitutions](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-variations-amp-substitutions)\n- [How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-how-to-make-a-traditional-borscht-recipe)\n- [Storing and Reheating Instructions](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-storing-and-reheating-instructions)\n- [FAQs](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-faqs)\n- [Other Posts You May Enjoy](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#h-other-posts-you-may-enjoy)\n- [Traditional Borscht Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#traditional-borscht-recipe)\n## Why You’ll Love This Recipe\n- **Frugal –** Like Anna, I love to glean wisdom on [**living frugally**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/16-ways-from-1913-to-save-money-live-frugally\/) from generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When **[working with a tight budget](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/how-to-feed-a-family-of-4-on-82-50-a-week-with-organic-whole-chicken-and-real-food-sides\/)**, soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste.\n- **Easy –** I love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my [**from-scratch tomato soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/), simple [**old-fashioned ham and bean soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/), [**Great-Grandma’s fish stew**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/fish-chowder-recipe-great-grandmas-from-1931-keto-friendly\/), creamy **[delicata squash soup](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/creamy-delicata-squash-soup\/)**, this delicious [**slow cooker cream of broccoli soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper\/), and, of course, [**hearty beef stew**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker\/).\n- **Versatile –** I love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish.\n## What Is Borscht\n![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nOriginating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further.\n\nEvery home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables.\n\n**Subscribe to Melissa K. Norris\\!**\n\nGet updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox.\n\nWe use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our [Privacy Notice](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/privacy-policy\/).\n## Ingredients\n![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nA full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below.\n\n- **Diced Tomatoes** – These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes.\n- **Beets** – Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color.\n- **Fresh Dill Weed** – Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 \\&frac12; Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch.\n## Variations & Substitutions\n![Browned sausage ready to add to the pot of traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Browned-Sausage-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nAnna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch.\n\n- **Butter** – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\n- **Water** – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [**chicken bone broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [**pressure-can homemade chicken broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/), so that’s usually what I have on hand.\n- **Optional Ingredients** – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised **[American Guinea Hogs](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/raising-american-guinea-hogs\/)**.\n## How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe\n![Wooden bench knife scooping onions up and putting them into a bowl.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/KoaBenchKnifescrapingonions-1024x683-1-edited-1.jpg)\n\n**Step 1:** Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\n\n![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 2:** Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\n\n![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht cooking in a stock pot.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ingredients-in-a-Stock-Pot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 3:** Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\n\n![Diced beets, potatoes, and shredded carrots on a cutting board ready for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Potatoes-Carrots-and-Beets-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 4:** Peel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato.\n\n![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht in a stock pot ready to cook.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ready-to-Cook-in-a-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 5:** Add the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now.\n\n![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 6:** Allow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper.\n\n**Step 7:** Serve soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or **[homemade yogurt](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/make-yogurt-home\/)** and a slice of homemade bread and butter (this **[Artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** or rye bread is equally amazing!).\n\n## Storing and Reheating Instructions\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\n\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\n\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\n\n## FAQs\n![A spoon dipping into a bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread in the background.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**What is traditional borscht made of?**\n\nTraditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn **[how to grow beets](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/grow-plant-beets\/)** here). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat.\n\n**Is borscht Russian or Ukrainian?**\n\nBorscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish.\n\n**What to serve with borscht for dinner?**\n\nFor a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside **[homemade artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** slathered in butter.\n## Other Posts You May Enjoy\n![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-1024x683.jpg)\n\n- [**How to Make Bone Broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/)\n- [**How to Can Bone Broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/)\n- [**Slow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper\/)\n- [**Bean and Ham Soup Recipe**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/)\n- [**Old-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker\/)\n- [**Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/)\n\n**Did you make this recipe?** If so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media **[@melissaknorris](https:\/\/instagram.com\/melissaknorris)** so I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens.\n\n![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-300x300.jpg)\n\n## Traditional Borscht Recipe\n[Melissa Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n\nYou don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal **traditional borscht recipe** (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\n\n4\\.20 from 136 votes\n\n[Print Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wprm_print\/traditional-borscht-recipe)\n\n[Pin Recipe](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/bookmarklet\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F05%2FBowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional+Borscht+Recipe&is_video=false)\n\nPrep Time 15 minutes mins\n\nCook Time 20 minutes mins\n\nTotal Time 35 minutes mins\n\nCourse Soup\n\nCuisine Ukrainian\n\nServings 6 servings\n\nCalories 119 kcal\n\n### Equipment\n- ▢\n  Soup Pot\n- ▢\n  Kitchen Utensils *knife, cutting board, etc.*\n\n### Ingredients 1x 2x 3x\n- ▢\n  1 cup celery *diced*\n- ▢\n  1 cup onions *diced*\n- ▢\n  1 cup cabbage *chopped*\n- ▢\n  2 cloves garlic *grated or pressed*\n- ▢\n  1 Tablespoon of butter *for sautéing onions and celery*\n- ▢\n  8 cups water *or beef broth\/chicken broth*\n- ▢\n  1 can diced tomatoes *1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought*\n- ▢\n  2 large beets *or 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced*\n- ▢\n  1 large carrots *or 2 medium, grated*\n- ▢\n  1 medium potato *diced*\n- ▢\n  1\/2 cup fresh dill weed\n- ▢\n  salt and pepper to taste *I love* [***Redmond Real Salt***](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/redmond-salt)***.*** *Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off*\n- ▢\n  bay leaf *optional*\n\n### Instructions\n- Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\n- Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\n- Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\n- Peel the beets, carrots and potato.\n- Dice half the beets and grate the other half.\n- Grate all the carrots.\n- Dice the potato.\n- Add the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now.\n- Allow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat.\n- Stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper.\n- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!)\n\n### Notes\n**Ingredient Substitutions:**\n\n- **Butter** – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\n- **Water** – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [**chicken bone broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [**pressure-can homemade chicken broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/), so that’s usually what I have on hand.\n- **Optional Ingredients** – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised **[American Guinea Hogs](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/raising-american-guinea-hogs\/)**.\n\n**Storing and Reheating Instructions:**\n\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\n\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\n\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\n\n### Nutrition\nServing: 1\\.5cupCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0\\.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0\\.1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 138mgPotassium: 747mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2564IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 2mg\n\nTried this recipe?[Let us know](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment) how it was\\!\n\n## 🍞 Struggling With Sourdough?\n![Sourdough starter in a jar on a counter.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Sourdough-Starter-with-Bubbles-1024x683.jpg)\n\nIf your starter won’t take off, your loaves are dense and hard, or sourdough just flat-out overwhelms you…\n\n👉 [**I’ll show you how to fix all of it.**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/sourdough-webinar-registration\/)\n\nJoin my **FREE workshop** and learn how to make a bubbly, active starter—the right way, from Day One.\n\n[**➡️ \\[Save Your Spot Now\\]**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/sourdough-webinar-opt-in\/)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button \"Share on Facebook\")\n\n[Tweet](https:\/\/twitter.com\/share?url=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&text=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe \"Share on Twitter\")\n\n[Pin](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/&media=https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nCategory: [Main Dish Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/recipes\/main-dish\/), [Recipes](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/category\/recipes\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=80&d=mm&r=g)\n\n#### About Melissa Norris\nMelissa K. Norris inspires people’s faith and pioneer roots with her books, podcast, and blog. Melissa lives with her husband and two children in their own little house in the big woods in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains. When she’s not wrangling chickens and cattle, you can find her stuffing Mason jars with homegrown food and playing with flour and sugar in the kitchen.\n## Reader Interactions\n### Comments\n1. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/a2feabbd41a67ca64db79c970e496ee68698e3f870c9923cb85fd51cebdffa89?s=48&d=mm&r=g)roslyn fraser\n   \n   [January 31, 2025 at 12:54 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-71001)\n   \n   I just made this soup I used packaged beef bone broth & added a red chilli , tastes pretty good\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n2. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/906540ee01d871ddf18e25d8e01d595d72867f59adf45975696749d4005f15f7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Carol P\n   \n   [October 8, 2023 at 12:36 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-42006)\n   \n   Do you have a suggestion for substituting tomatoes. Is there something I can add in its place and would it still be good?\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n3. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8f7fbff3a8d613c870e96a93cca8986edadf3c2003b64a9337a2dbe664414c47?s=48&d=mm&r=g)John\n   \n   [May 19, 2023 at 6:26 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-40547)\n   \n   We bought a container of borscht on Amazon and added:  \n    1. beef broth  \n    2. some string beans  \n    3. diced, fried sausage  \n    4. diced garlic  \n    Should be good\\!\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n4. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/675b19c310ed9617c8c042d97b02ae3c58d8c35bd6452955be0d29edb3161c55?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike M\n   \n   [March 12, 2023 at 10:49 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-38826)\n   \n   An AMAZING soup addition is to use Pork SpareRibs, and Pork Hock to start your soup for the bone broth, and the meat addition. Simmer on low heat for the first 1\/2 hour and skim the foam from the bones out of the stock before adding other ingredients\\!\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n5. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/05ec12384a09e4756e0aedec25dfa74521964bd429c9fb02c0c546df5ba71f20?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Kaitlin\n   \n   [January 28, 2023 at 5:23 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-38066)\n   \n   ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n    I absolutely love this recipe! I made it using the 3x portioned ingredients.\n   \n   My dad and I used to make this soup when I was younger, but when he got sick, I couldn’t find the recipe to make it. This one tastes exactly how I remember it\\!\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n6. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/dcd9ceef77b832aa5566b31e46dfa71ff4dbd51b14091d180c430db90c59640d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Dimitrios\n   \n   [January 10, 2023 at 9:16 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37659)\n   \n   I have a question. I had a lady from Ukraine that cooked borscht and she added at the end mayonnaise but she also told me sour cream its better. In your recipe is it different because its from a different part of Ukraine?\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n7. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/95416b7fda5de4bb82b53abf1acb425bdab0c5518c462b6784550f688ae82e76?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katy\n   \n   [January 9, 2023 at 4:59 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37622)\n   \n   Hi Melissa! I have your new preserving book but this recipe isn’t in there. Can I pressure can this for the same time as your veggie soup recipe? Omitting the cabbage of course.  \n    Thanks\\!\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n   - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Melissa Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n     \n     [January 10, 2023 at 4:58 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37664)\n     \n     No, because you can’t can pureed beets.\n     \n     [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n     - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/4d26ac2bed0fa46dffed7bf36a07aba3ca451220150c72b7852962ed6fd94217?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Shelley\n       \n       [January 16, 2024 at 9:47 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-44388)\n       \n       If you cook them long enough before you skin them, put them in a blender and they will be pureed. Easy peasy.\n       \n       [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n8. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/5bd9eecdd805c33efb376475cc560b14f5e3271f3afaa3e54dbfbd452b9af534?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Nicole\n   \n   [January 5, 2023 at 12:27 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37519)\n   \n   This is a very good recipe and I make it for my Ukrainian friend and she loves it! She told me also that she eats this soup cold on hot days in the summertime.\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n9. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/76a305d03f596c8cb83c5d58971972a2d18757b18c119568c7188dd38826d489?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalie Hursky\n   \n   [December 16, 2022 at 7:00 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37131)\n   \n   It’s offensive to Ukrainians to refer to our country as “the” Ukraine – it’s not a territory – that is Russian propaganda. Ukraine was, is and shall be a proud independent country. UNESCO, the UN’s cultural agency, has registered “Ukrainian borscht,” the beet-based soup, as part of Ukraine’s “intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding,” a move that Ukraine’s culture minister lauded as “victory in the borscht war.”\n   \n   [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n   - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d4ad06240bda941ca706164688b0c33f3877c8bcc37e5d35b2be92abcd39aff6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Rita\n     \n     [October 4, 2025 at 10:10 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-102645)\n     \n     🙏\n     \n     [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n10. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/2c63047c2e53b8003ad92e40aa4efdbb967e001e4ac4057f6b88716f53e3c7f8?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Sophie\n    \n    [October 6, 2022 at 7:04 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-34332)\n    \n    Delicious!!!I first had Borscht at 9 y.o..Thought I ‘d have to fake liking it…I LOVED IT!!Now my 21 y.o.sin gets to enjoy this AMAZING borscht Thank you! P.s.I love that it is rich in iron and so healthy.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n11. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/237f474b9b1ac5643d30a28ac547576aa83f885aaa11d9e0e1eec2b580c2da3b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Bob T\n    \n    [October 3, 2022 at 1:03 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-34248)\n    \n    In your recipe, you put the potatoes into the pot after the tomatoes.  \n     In my experience, potato does not cook with tomato – it can stay hard.\n    \n    Your beets – there are several types.  \n     I assume that yours are what we in Australia and UK call beetroot, and are purple in colour.\n    \n    This looks great.  \n     One Ukrainian friend sent me a video of her making ‘borsh’ (maybe did not translate well from Russian) and I found this to help me.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n12. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/5c4d7a962074f5f0651b58f93955562d922ef8a8595e40453b4b1ba552cebcd4?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Gary\n    \n    [July 3, 2022 at 6:56 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-32473)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     I’m a big fan of borscht, but most people serve it as a fall\/winter dish, including some that mention it here. Great, yes, but a favorite of mine is to have it in the summer. After it cools, put it in the blender and purée it. Keep it in a pitcher in the refrigerator and serve as a cold soup, or just enjoy a little cold glass of it. (I won’t mention that a bit of vodka in it makes a different spin on a Bloody Mary! Oops, I did)\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n13. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/595498213b5ae63f61483f570582e0bb5033813f30766f6244ca36ecc171d221?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Prue\n    \n    [March 6, 2022 at 12:27 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-29371)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     I made 3x the recipe for a group of 21 women who loved it.  \n     I added kielbasa. We topped the bowls with sour cream.  \n     The soup was cheered to express our support for Ukraine during this time of the Russian invasionl\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n14. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/88c5dac89de59338c87437d9ec0e5b82da60cf86dbc2d5609f6cae728f137c57?s=48&d=mm&r=g)mla mla\n    \n    [February 27, 2022 at 7:04 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-29039)\n    \n    good\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n15. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/37b097e703bb280a0fb78728af9706bf6ca439232e49887378c5d90b3195ef07?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marlys Bliesner\n    \n    [January 20, 2022 at 4:41 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-28099)\n    \n    Enjoyed all your information re: borscht history, etc. My 4 grand parents came from the Ukraine (about 1900) . My Mother and Aunts made borscht but a little different from your recipe. As you said, they used what they had.  \n     I make it vegetarian. Several other ethnic foods my Mom made but I would have no way of spelling them.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n16. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/15417dd4ee5d78a937bd65d317a84436351dd2543b82fb75aac2e25072144d29?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lesley\n    \n    [September 24, 2021 at 5:03 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-16802)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     Great Recipe, thanks for sharing 🙂\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n17. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/15417dd4ee5d78a937bd65d317a84436351dd2543b82fb75aac2e25072144d29?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lesley\n    \n    [September 24, 2021 at 5:01 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-16801)\n    \n    Hi, Thanks for sharing this authentic ukranian borscht recipe. I made two large pots and shared with a neighbour! Namaste 🙂\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n18. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/20503402069e0af2d4be47dcb99826773de604eb3c518faaf51c7fe9549d8fd9?s=48&d=mm&r=g)J\n    \n    [August 11, 2021 at 3:08 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-16140)\n    \n    We always add slices of boiled egg ,which I find yummy but that is my Grandma’s Ukrainian version .Love Borscht\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n19. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/1feb7c73e66d9f19a2dfb2126aa12859be050aba2d235bab98633e3f8e438213?s=48&d=mm&r=g)k\n    \n    [July 25, 2021 at 3:07 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-15893)\n    \n    You don’t put celery into borscht.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8781080fd01a1d9dfec10ef4b9188643fcc3002c92692b34cd3fa06d557ac452?s=48&d=mm&r=g)John K.\n      \n      [November 19, 2023 at 8:50 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-42906)\n      \n      you use what you have.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n20. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/3fd802e5b11eb82320b601496fbb426c0a95fac685467ab6d3f15ee112c0b560?s=48&d=mm&r=g)SW\n    \n    [July 11, 2021 at 3:09 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-15583)\n    \n    Seems like a great recipe\\!  \n     My Ukrainian great-grandmother used to add parsnips and some salo to borshch, too. I never tried adding salo to borshch, but parsnips do add great flavor. They are difficult to find in modern times, though.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n21. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9866724a6160de57ced9bf8763082edda84aa402b0586e5e09c0849ed7383240?s=48&d=mm&r=g)TR\n    \n    [May 27, 2021 at 1:15 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-14791)\n    \n    ![4 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-4.svg)  \n     Today I’m making Rabbit Borscht. My husband’s family is Ukrainian and 1\/2 of family is Eastern European. I’ve made borscht for years…we usually use a beef roast for base, lots of beets and the fresh green tops. We take the potatoes and boil, then saute with butter and lots of dill. We also used Sour Salt…hard to find, so today I’m going to try the apple cider vinegar. I’m going to cut up the rabbit (from a friend’s family who raises meat rabbits), brown and then add everything into an electric pressure cooker. What’s great about borscht is that if you don’t have something like cabbage, you can still make it…Thanks for your recipe! I’m going to follow as much as possible and let you know how it all comes out tonight\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/208fff8d06bbdb176b5ecaf04e42495cd48acd80a0f48275b03f08eec813b029?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debra\n      \n      [January 22, 2022 at 12:11 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-28125)\n      \n      Omg—when my grandmother made this she used sour salt (otherwise known as citric salt). We ate it cold with sour cream and a hot boiled potato in each dish.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n22. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/7b932eabfa9b588d232dafd5b068da688ecf6a645de06a7bbc6e5ef62ef05ce7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Elizabeth\n    \n    [March 4, 2021 at 12:01 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-12740)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     My family has Ukrainian friends who introduced us to Borscht when we visited more than 15 years ago. It’s one of my favorite cold-weather meals and always reminds me of warm hugs.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n23. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/4eefe75a6c3a069f5bc491777363d842155731b944ecdb6552fb2af23a8eb609?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalka Miller\n    \n    [December 25, 2020 at 4:34 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-11662)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     This borscht recipe is very authentic and exactly how my parents make it. They always make it vegetarian as this is how they made it in Ukraine. I am very proud of my Ukrainian heritage\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n24. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/153f909064f6516f629ddb87fa0c3e80eba9980b323a5f22ef2163716547ecce?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Donna\n    \n    [December 13, 2020 at 5:53 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-11444)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     I didn’t think I liked borscht but this was really good. My husband thanks you.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n25. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/efa72c0f7c5d1ae73e85f6d8c472904de9f25c1f27f48fa92a342d69e7f98438?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike Penchorka\n    \n    [December 7, 2020 at 10:42 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-11345)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     If you want to intensify the beet flavour, roast 2-3 beets wrapped in foil at 375 for about hour. Once cooled, grate or chop and add near the end after the potatoes are cooked through. add some Red wine vinegar. This is the way my mom and baba made it…\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n26. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/90373f41e6f030c90724314730af08f792c80ffdad6c5f8bda86ef47d984f618?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Daria\n    \n    [December 2, 2020 at 11:15 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-11227)\n    \n    ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n     I found your explanation of Borsht and your general explanation of Ukrainian food and its sensibility 100% relatable. It’s as if I wrote it myself.\n    \n    Although I’m the American daughter of immigrants, Ukrainian pride was instilled in me from birth. We are strong, resourceful, and food is an expression of love and the source of comfort. I’m so proud of my heritage\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n27. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c8b8045d9344e2e22523aa2b533c2589ce266b713939157fec31b930241db37b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katie B\n    \n    [September 24, 2020 at 3:10 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9763)\n    \n    Um… Where’s the recipe? I’ve made this before and love, but now the recipe space is just filled with an ad. Was hoping to make this tonight, but I guess I’ll to wing it.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Melissa Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n      \n      [September 25, 2020 at 8:26 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9768)\n      \n      We just updated the website and it took a little time to get the recipe cards up, but it’s there now\\!\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n      - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c8b8045d9344e2e22523aa2b533c2589ce266b713939157fec31b930241db37b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katie B\n        \n        [March 14, 2021 at 4:30 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-12890)\n        \n        ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n         Thanks so much, Melissa! I’m glad to see it back up there and updated. Guess I just had bad timing. But I think I remembered it pretty well, lol\\!\n        \n        [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n28. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/ab2b01ece1682fda334377df1585a35769c7210e48f9a9eb66bb85a2f38c93a4?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Connie](http:\/\/caborealestate.info\/)\n    \n    [September 16, 2020 at 3:09 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9730)\n    \n    This is a great recipe! I used beef tenderloin sauteed first in a little olive oil salt and pepper to brown then removed and followed the rest of the recipe, added the beef back in after the onions and cabbage had sauteed. I added two bunches of beet greens, one bunch kale, green beans and it turned out perfectly. I now have a big pot to separate and freeze meals for later. Thanks for this great find.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n29. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/35e4690cfcbffac15f3ae0b8c85e9d79d6e9d5eede079fb537855bffaf81e9b2?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Amy Meyer\n    \n    [August 16, 2020 at 2:16 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9588)\n    \n    I’m not Ukrainian .. but if I could choose to be, I would ! Love the Ukrainian people and their culture. I notice they haven’t needed govt funding to practice their culture either ! Very touching to see the multi generational dancing. I make borscht every summer now after my friend showed my the frying pan \/ boiling pot method many years ago 🙂\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n30. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/192af8f40a98168c6982fc259f809e5d194c5a4ee82fbf32e670c1c433801732?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Victoria Godin (Kulyk)\n    \n    [July 15, 2020 at 3:25 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9395)\n    \n    Tried your recipe. It was excellent!! It so reminded me of being with my grandma. Thank you for sharing.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n31. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8d423097f2e60c39faa44e34ff5b7bb42d1fc203ad269b617d8e07f683c862f7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Dc\n    \n    [April 18, 2020 at 8:52 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8959)\n    \n    Hi there, thank you for this recipe. I barely know what borscht is but had a ton of beets and cabbage. Made this recipe and it’s amazing! I didn’t have any potato so I added peas. Wish I had fresh dill but it still works well without! I also threw in one spoonful of vinegar. Did not think I’d be into beet soup but I am really happy with how this turned out. Thank you\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n32. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53f59a519a0bf0614429412bdeb249fb493cd435b324359710c1423f1459e63d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Catherine Hughes\n    \n    [March 4, 2020 at 2:21 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8728)\n    \n    I lived in Ukraine for a year and always looked forward to my host mother, Galina, making borscht on a weekly basis. Some recipes for the soup were so intimidating that I psyched myself into not trying to recreate this favorite. Literally fifteen years later, I finally tried it, thanks to this recipe. Borscht always requires a few steps with all the vegetable-chopping, but this recipe made the process more accessible. My host mom always add beef stew-chunks, so I incorporated those into the soup. I have now made it twice and my kids and husband really enjoy it. Thank you so much\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n33. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/740672ecac47d9ccafcae9cef2d88464f5d60dfaedd891fb8f52b6df4e777217?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Amy Weeks\n    \n    [November 14, 2019 at 8:30 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8408)\n    \n    Any idea how many cups this recipe makes?\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anna Sakawsky\n      \n      [November 17, 2019 at 12:13 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8421)\n      \n      Hi Amy,\n      \n      Ya know, I’ve never measured it out exactly and when I asked my mother she wasn’t even sure! But my best estimate would be about 12 cups or so, give or take. It also depends on your preferences and if you want to add an extra beet or handful of veggies, etc. But I would guess it’s around 12 cups in the end.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n34. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/682ff528f4b9a9ff1295efb72a96e04bb48bac2d3f491ecdf62877aa32ffa7f5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Glynis\n    \n    [October 31, 2019 at 6:57 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8361)\n    \n    Thanks for this wonderful recipe. I’ve been making borscht for years, using a variety of recipes and this is, by far, the best I’ve tried. I added a little bit of left-over meatloaf that I had in the fridge and used plain yogurt instead of sour cream. Your borscht will become a staple in our household.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n35. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9f517765139aa3b99ad6188dbf4becf7253622f1f15fdbf4349093b601840ad5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Vanessa\n    \n    [October 17, 2019 at 5:25 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8280)\n    \n    Quick question: does this recipe freeze well? Any tips for freezing?\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b158cd11b24725f75ab62a2961acfb4ad1a3b4502986354cff24715f7a64e8d3?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Nadia\n      \n      [December 20, 2022 at 10:34 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37214)\n      \n      Yes! I freeze it in Ziploc bags. Flavor unchanged\\!\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n36. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/38b3eef995819a93fd2f6a246c783373a4341c4f5f74053ee9c6e0984464fa9a?s=48&d=mm&r=g)David\n    \n    [October 10, 2019 at 7:01 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8256)\n    \n    Hi Anna,\n    \n    Thanks for posting this recipe and the stories. My fiance is Ukrainian and is still there. I just got back home from Kharkiv, and I fell in love with Ukraine. My family roots are Balkan, and I felt strangely at home there.\n    \n    I wanted to ask, where are you homesteading?\n    \n    Thanks again for the recipe. I Aldo AM going to make Okroshka and want to surprise Ira with my culinary acumen. 🙂\n    \n    Dave\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n37. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/43f73432a22f29c5580fcb97a78bc39bd67c6fb3bb78f56d0df9575a22df08c9?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike Allard\n    \n    [September 30, 2019 at 1:27 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8221)\n    \n    Thank you, have been making borscht this time of year for the past few seasons. Am in full agreement with the frugality of using what’s at hand. Like the old world, Ukrainian references, and making do. The way many people have had to. And I love borscht topped with sour cream\\!\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n38. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f42f9ace7856d55906ba186aa4559595d1cabd1f89840cab084b474142c36dee?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Travis\n    \n    [May 1, 2019 at 6:45 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7849)\n    \n    Tried making borscht for the first time yesterday and this recipe came out great. Thank you for sharing.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n39. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f12da434f76e2c26271232b22f29dae803b50f1561d87f0637bb9e56fbc9a3cd?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marnie\n    \n    [April 4, 2019 at 7:54 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7798)\n    \n    Coming from a Ukrainian family, we ate borscht all the time. It was never my favorite soup. When I made your recipe, I LOVED it and I make it all the time. Thanks so very much.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n40. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d121a5bbfbf3af8c4c359fde8e7466ca5446338c6231296948b50c79e035c7e1?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Barbara\n    \n    [December 29, 2018 at 9:40 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7514)\n    \n    Red or green cabbage?\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/76a305d03f596c8cb83c5d58971972a2d18757b18c119568c7188dd38826d489?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalie Hursky\n      \n      [December 16, 2022 at 7:06 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-37132)\n      \n      ![5 stars](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-recipe-maker\/assets\/icons\/rating\/stars-alt-5.svg)  \n       Green cabbage. Beet greens are great too, if buying beets with the tops.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n41. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0073f0e9594a2048f8f8789ae88d13031bd279103aa1ed25d8c1deb309af102?s=48&d=mm&r=g)stephanie wohlberg\n    \n    [December 29, 2018 at 6:47 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7512)\n    \n    My Baba and my mother always made borscht with just potatoes,onions,peas and dill and of course beets and then they would put whipping cream into your soup before serving by just bringing it to a boil I find that it is much better than adding sour cream or yogurt. Its heavenly.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n42. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c4d40f5c298ec2c0945ca754a6c2c05ca024c949a47218e1b092b4c201f9962e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lorrie\n    \n    [October 8, 2018 at 12:36 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7324)\n    \n    Making a huge pot of this for my freezer. Snow is on the ground and more is expected this week, so I went hunting for a recipe that looked like what my mom made, growing up. Can’t wait to get this on the stove! Question…is there a preferred type of potato for this?\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n43. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/56f80766ddde68018aec244845d769fefced1a4b224796d53ac80534452e389c?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Liz\n    \n    [September 23, 2018 at 2:56 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7279)\n    \n    Thank you! I grew “too many” beets and carrots and your recipe was helpful and liberating. We are having borscht tonight thanks to your mom. I hope you can tell her thank you for me.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n44. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f752ace8f3f6b7d9057cac84622f2031d8b8c6766539be2ae5f5ba6a89df3054?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Azriel Collier\n    \n    [September 23, 2018 at 1:16 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7278)\n    \n    I’ve eaten Borscht many times and it is actually originally from russian jews\/hebrews who made it for Pesach\/Passover and also for Sukkot. As a Nazrine, we usually serve it up right after the “communion” where we tear the unleavened bread and blessing it as our Messiah did.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/3f936ae44e10288833943e83724c03f67593598d5b5ed4c010358f3f77669595?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marko\n      \n      [October 30, 2019 at 8:05 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-8354)\n      \n      You are incorrect. Borscht origins were Ukrainian or from what is now Ukraine and spread from there.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n      - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/4de266753dd2deadd64585c613498978470cb9f864dfc567d254170eccac0700?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Wes\n        \n        [January 11, 2021 at 1:14 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-11983)\n        \n        You are incorrect (somewhat) also while he was correct (somewhat). It did originate in that area, by the Jews and others, in Ukraine.  \n         What? You did not know that there were Jews in Ukraine???\n        \n        [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n45. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/65b3e9794f96288683af5a9a30ae1985f2ef3ad71d8899b9325e104e4de71b49?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Sha\n    \n    [September 13, 2018 at 7:46 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-7250)\n    \n    Hi there. Just wondering how you would incorporate the ground pork or pork sausage into your borscht soup recipe? I don’t see any mention of quantity and also may I ask how much soup does your recipe make? I may double up and make a double or triple batch and portion it all out and freeze.  \n     Ok thanks for any help and tips that you may have. God bless you from Sk Canada  \n     Sha\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d27daab0709a86de84474603d0fbcc6e9f84294cf3b45c66ca3a6f96cefea31d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debbie\n      \n      [April 13, 2023 at 1:29 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-39751)\n      \n      In Ukraine, when they add the meat, it is cooked separately like in a slow cooker and then added at the end for those who want meat. If you want to add while cooking, you can dice up some pork pieces and brown them in the pot first then continue on its the recipe. Not quantity specific. As little or as much as you want or have on hand.\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n46. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/407b5110a9a8e23c6ba7d9a32fdab0137deacfa8bb96e8745d332d261bc767a8?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Krys\n    \n    [November 8, 2017 at 5:44 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6582)\n    \n    Melissa,  \n     Love your site and articles. Could you please add a PDF of your we pages and articles. I don’t want to miss a thing but there are times I don’t get to get on the puter for days at a time the PDF would help me keep up and I would bet a bunch of others.  \n     Keep up the excellent work and God Bless my friend.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/12f8c066c44e999984a8be42bafb393d044f155c202c0155a3fe6fdfa0fdc54a?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Allan Ferman\n      \n      [September 1, 2022 at 3:12 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-33623)\n      \n      enjoyed your comments  \n       am interested in the canning and freezing methods  \n       In canning , even with new sealing tops I frequently get lost a leaky seal and then fungus ..can you help ?\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n47. ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9f234a16eedf70045f98d7341fcea9dd56cb8dd7f2b83714592b658461bf43ac?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debbie\n    \n    [November 3, 2017 at 1:29 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6557)\n    \n    Looks so delicious. With the ugly weather outside, I can’t think of anything better than a big pot of borscht.\n    \n    [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n    - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris\n      \n      [November 3, 2017 at 5:26 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6560)\n      \n      We’re supposed to get snow tomorrow and I might have to dig up a few of the beets left in the ground to make a pot\\!\n      \n      [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n      - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6befefbb3412a1d37b86a53a42e55cbc7d4939ea60f54794d42b9f9a4826b34e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Christie Fairchild\n        \n        [November 4, 2017 at 7:34 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6566)\n        \n        Thanks for the great recipe for borscht. I have my mom’s yellowed, splattered, 3×5 card for hers, but this one adds fresh dill – looks delicious! One suggestion for a lower fat version – use plain yogurt to top instead of sour cream – is that a sacrilege? Hope not, because it’s really good that way.  \n         Snowing again – guess it’s time to make a pot of soup…mmmmmm\\!\n        \n        [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n        - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris\n          \n          [November 5, 2017 at 5:40 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6567)\n          \n          Hi Christie, I often use plain yogurt in place of sour cream mainly because I always have yogurt, not the case with sour cream. 🙂\n          \n          [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n        - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anna Sakawsky\n          \n          [November 5, 2017 at 7:48 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6568)\n          \n          Christie I often use yogurt (shhh! Don’t tell my mom!). I think it’s sacrilege in her eyes, but not mine! I often have Greek Yogurt in my fridge which makes the perfect substitute. The soup could always be eaten without sour cream (and bread and butter) for a really low-fat version, but I have to admit it wouldn’t be quite as good;)\n          \n          [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n          - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris\n            \n            [November 5, 2017 at 7:04 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6570)\n            \n            lol, Anna I love this, I”m the same with cornbread, my Grandmother would skin me for using yellow corn instead of white.\n          - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anastasia Sakawsky\n            \n            [November 6, 2017 at 12:59 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-6572)\n            \n            Right? What they don’t know can’t hurt them;)\n        - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/876fd260b14e3e36e8b4d139d25b9b0d16329266bddccab2c43bb69206e838bb?s=48&d=mm&r=g)john\n          \n          [August 29, 2020 at 3:28 am](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9653)\n          \n          I always add a half cup of apple cider vinegar.\n          \n          [Log in to Reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F)\n          - ![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c953a86098468e160237ee4c0d5e77e8205ff1739c242b57dd27a3c9706c4fd5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Jenna\n            \n            [September 5, 2020 at 12:24 pm](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment-9676)\n            \n            John – My Baba would always add vinegar as well, and never put in potatoes. Then it would can beautifully.\n\n4\\.20 from 136 votes ([124 ratings without comment](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/))\n\n### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#respond)\nYou must be [logged in](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) to post a comment.\n\n![A woman in the kitchen with jars of home canned food.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SHP_2912-edited-scaled.jpg)\n\n## Howdy, I’m Melissa\\!\nI’m so glad you’re here. This is the place for all of us who loved Little House when we were young and thought Laura was our best friend. It’s where we grow dinner in the backyard and think everything looks and tastes better when it comes from a Mason jar. Here, you’ll find my favorite from-scratch recipes, herbal remedies and tutorials, and all my gardening tips from my 20+ years of growing and raising our own food.\n\n[More About Melissa](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCM7-S8Q0uqUxG0kKfX_dOzw)\n- [Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n\nMy Most Popular Posts\n\n[![Sourdough starter in a jar with a loaf of bread in the background.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Sourdough-Starter-and-Bread.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/5-tips-on-how-to-get-started-with-sourdough\/)\n\n### [How to Make a Sourdough Starter + Tips for Success](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/5-tips-on-how-to-get-started-with-sourdough\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Sourdough-Sandwich-Bread-4-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-beginner-sourdough-sandwich-bread-no-yeast\/)\n\n### [Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread (Beginner Friendly Recipe)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-beginner-sourdough-sandwich-bread-no-yeast\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/cherryhandpieonsmallplate-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-pop-tarts-from-scratch-hand-pies\/)\n\n### [Homemade Pop Tarts From Scratch (Hand Pies)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-pop-tarts-from-scratch-hand-pies\/)\n\n[![A cooked whole roast chicken in a cast iron skillet.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Roast-Chicken_Cast-Iron_MKN-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/oven-roasted-chicken-recipe\/)\n\n### [Easy Oven Roasted Chicken Recipe (Crispy & Juicy)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/oven-roasted-chicken-recipe\/)\n\n[![A white plate with a helping of strawberry rhubarb dump cake and a fork. Text overlay says, \"Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake Real Food Style: Homemade Cake Mix & No Jello\".](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/StrawberryRhubarbDumpCakewithoutJelloFB-1.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/strawberry-rhubarb-dump-cake\/)\n\n### [Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake without Jello & Homemade Cake Mix](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/strawberry-rhubarb-dump-cake\/)\n\n[![Bacon wrapped asparagus on a white plate.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bacon-Wrapped-Asparagus-15-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bacon-wrapped-asparagus-easy-appetizer-or-side-dish\/)\n\n### [Bacon Wrapped Asparagus (Easy Appetizer or Side Dish)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bacon-wrapped-asparagus-easy-appetizer-or-side-dish\/)\n\n[![A stack of homemade graham crackers on a plate.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/grahamcrackerstackhorizontal-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/easy-homemade-graham-crackers\/)\n\n### [Easy Homemade Graham Crackers](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/easy-homemade-graham-crackers\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/PlatedbySeasonwithsummervegetables-1-772x1024.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/plated-by-season\/)\n\n### Plated by Season: Home‑Cooked. 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Minimal fuss.\n\n[**Grab Your Copy (\\$20, Free Shipping)**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/plated-by-season\/)\n\nSpring Preserving Recipes\n\n[![A jar of pickled asparagus with spears on a plate.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/upclosepickledasparagusjar-scaled-2.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-pickled-asparagus-easy-canning-recipe\/)\n\n### [Pickled Asparagus Recipe (Canned, Quick, or Refrigerator)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-pickled-asparagus-easy-canning-recipe\/)\n\n[![two jars of strawberry jam sitting on a tabletop with fresh strawberries around it.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Strawberry_Jars_Rect-5.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/strawberryjamrecipewithoutpectinandlowsugar\/)\n\n### [Strawberry Jam Recipe without Pectin and Low Sugar](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/strawberryjamrecipewithoutpectinandlowsugar\/)\n\n[![Jar of fermented lemons on a counter with a bag of citrus and sliced lemons on a plate](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/lemonfermentedfreshhorizontal-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-store-lemons-for-a-year-fermented-lemons\/)\n\n### [How to Store Lemons (For a Year!) – Fermented Lemons](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-store-lemons-for-a-year-fermented-lemons\/)\n\n[![A jar of fermented pickles sitting on an outdoor table.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/finishedshot-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/old-fashioned-salt-and-water-fermented-pickles\/)\n\n### [Fermented Pickles Recipe\\|Easy Old-Fashioned Salt Brine Pickles](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/old-fashioned-salt-and-water-fermented-pickles\/)\n\n[![A basket full of strawberries.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Strawberries-in-basket_MKN-80x80.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-preserve-strawberries\/)\n\n### [How to Preserve Strawberries: Keep Those Berries Fresh\\!](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-preserve-strawberries\/)\n## Sidebar\n***\nContinue Exploring:\n\n[![Two bowls of tomato soup with a loaf of bread and a jar of tomato sauce beside it.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/Tomato_Soup-Hero_MKN-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/)\n\n### [Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/)\nGrowing and preserving your own food is a fantastic way to build your own food security, but it’s also important to know how you’re going to use that food. This homemade tomato …\n\n[![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/turkey-and-dumplings-1.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/turkey-and-dumplings-recipe\/)\n\n### [Turkey and Dumplings Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/turkey-and-dumplings-recipe\/)\nAfter Christmas dinner, many of us have leftover turkey or chicken. I actually had deboned my turkey after Thanksgiving and froze a bag of cubed meat. While writing a scene in my …\n\n[![A Mason jar of cream of celery soup on a wooden counter.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Cream-of-Celery-Soup-11-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/cream-of-celery-soup-recipe\/)\n\n### [Cream of Celery Soup Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/cream-of-celery-soup-recipe\/)\nIf you’ve ever pulled a can of condensed cream of celery soup from the pantry to make casseroles, creamy chicken dishes, or rice bakes, you’re going to love this from-scratch …\n\n[![Ham and bean soup served in a white bowl.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/Ham-and-Been-Soup-Feature_MKN-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/)\n\n### [Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/)\nMake old-fashioned ham and bean soup with a ham bone, simple vegetables, and rich flavor. A hearty, frugal, from-scratch classic.\n\nPopular Posts:\n\n[![Purple dead nettle growing in a patch.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Purple-Dead-Nettle-Close_MKN-1024x680-1-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/purple-dead-nettle-foraging-medicinal-and-cooking-guide\/)\n\n### [Purple Dead Nettle – Foraging, Medicinal, and Cooking Guide](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/purple-dead-nettle-foraging-medicinal-and-cooking-guide\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Sourdough-Sandwich-Bread-4-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-beginner-sourdough-sandwich-bread-no-yeast\/)\n\n### [Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread (Beginner Friendly Recipe)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-beginner-sourdough-sandwich-bread-no-yeast\/)\n\n[![Jar of fermented lemons on a counter with a bag of citrus and sliced lemons on a plate](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/lemonfermentedfreshhorizontal-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-store-lemons-for-a-year-fermented-lemons\/)\n\n### [How to Store Lemons (For a Year!) – Fermented Lemons](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-store-lemons-for-a-year-fermented-lemons\/)\n\n[![Chocolate gravy being spooned over a flaky buttermilk biscuit.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Chocolate-Gravy_Biscuit-1_MKN-400x300.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/chocolate-gravy\/)\n\n### [1930s Chocolate Gravy Recipe](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/chocolate-gravy\/)\n\n[![A jar of pickled asparagus with spears on a plate.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/upclosepickledasparagusjar-scaled-2.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-pickled-asparagus-easy-canning-recipe\/)\n\n### [Pickled Asparagus Recipe (Canned, Quick, or Refrigerator)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/best-pickled-asparagus-easy-canning-recipe\/)\n\n[![Three images of hot cross buns sitting on a napkin. Text overlay says, \"Easy Hot Cross Buns: Great-Grandma's 1950's recipe with no processed sugar\".](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/traditionalhotcrossbunrecipe-5.jpg)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/hot-cross-buns-vintage-recipe-from-1950\/)\n\n### [Traditional Hot Cross Buns – Easy Recipe from 1950](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/hot-cross-buns-vintage-recipe-from-1950\/)\n\n***\n[![Melissa K. Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/cropped-logo.png)](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/)\n\n**Follow me:**\n\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n- [Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/melissaknorris\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCM7-S8Q0uqUxG0kKfX_dOzw)\n\n- [About Melissa K. 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Norris Pioneering Today LLC\n\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Affiliate Disclaimer](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/disclosure-disclaimer\/)\n- [Terms of Use](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/terms-of-use\/)\n- [Accessibility](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/accessibility\/)\n\nMelissa K. Norris and Pioneering Today LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to [Amazon.com](https:\/\/amazon.com\/).\n\n[Privacy Manager](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/ct.pinterest.com\/v3\/?tid=2614468425777&noscript=1)\n\n## Rate This Recipe\n## Recipe Ratings without Comment\nSomething went wrong. Please try again.","attrs_readable_markdown":"You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal **traditional borscht recipe** (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of **[homemade artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\n\n![Bird's eye view of traditional Ukranian borscht served in bowls and garnished with sour cream.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Bird_s-Eye_MKN-1024x683.jpg)\n\nThis recipe is from my friend Anna at [**The House and Homestead**](https:\/\/thehouseandhomestead.com\/)**.** Anna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).”\n\n![](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/HomesteadGifts-1.jpg)\n\n## Why You’ll Love This Recipe\n- **Frugal –** Like Anna, I love to glean wisdom on [**living frugally**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/16-ways-from-1913-to-save-money-live-frugally\/) from generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When **[working with a tight budget](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/how-to-feed-a-family-of-4-on-82-50-a-week-with-organic-whole-chicken-and-real-food-sides\/)**, soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste.\n- **Easy –** I love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my [**from-scratch tomato soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/), simple [**old-fashioned ham and bean soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/), [**Great-Grandma’s fish stew**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/fish-chowder-recipe-great-grandmas-from-1931-keto-friendly\/), creamy **[delicata squash soup](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/creamy-delicata-squash-soup\/)**, this delicious [**slow cooker cream of broccoli soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper\/), and, of course, [**hearty beef stew**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker\/).\n- **Versatile –** I love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish.\n## What Is Borscht\n![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nOriginating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further.\n\nEvery home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables.\n\n**Subscribe to Melissa K. Norris\\!**\n\nGet updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox.\n\nWe use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our [Privacy Notice](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/privacy-policy\/).\n## Ingredients\n![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nA full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below.\n\n- **Diced Tomatoes** – These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes.\n- **Beets** – Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color.\n- **Fresh Dill Weed** – Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 \\&frac12; Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch.\n## Variations & Substitutions\n![Browned sausage ready to add to the pot of traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Browned-Sausage-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\nAnna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch.\n\n- **Butter** – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\n- **Water** – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [**chicken bone broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [**pressure-can homemade chicken broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/), so that’s usually what I have on hand.\n- **Optional Ingredients** – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised **[American Guinea Hogs](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/raising-american-guinea-hogs\/)**.\n## How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe\n![Wooden bench knife scooping onions up and putting them into a bowl.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/KoaBenchKnifescrapingonions-1024x683-1-edited-1.jpg)\n\n**Step 1:** Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\n\n![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 2:** Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\n\n![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht cooking in a stock pot.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ingredients-in-a-Stock-Pot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 3:** Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\n\n![Diced beets, potatoes, and shredded carrots on a cutting board ready for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Potatoes-Carrots-and-Beets-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 4:** Peel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato.\n\n![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht in a stock pot ready to cook.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ready-to-Cook-in-a-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 5:** Add the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now.\n\n![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**Step 6:** Allow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper.\n\n**Step 7:** Serve soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or **[homemade yogurt](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/make-yogurt-home\/)** and a slice of homemade bread and butter (this **[Artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** or rye bread is equally amazing!).\n\n## Storing and Reheating Instructions\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\n\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\n\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\n\n## FAQs\n![A spoon dipping into a bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread in the background.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg)\n\n**What is traditional borscht made of?**\n\nTraditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn **[how to grow beets](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/grow-plant-beets\/)** here). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat.\n\n**Is borscht Russian or Ukrainian?**\n\nBorscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish.\n\n**What to serve with borscht for dinner?**\n\nFor a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside **[homemade artisan bread](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading\/)** slathered in butter.\n## Other Posts You May Enjoy\n![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-1024x683.jpg)\n\n- [**How to Make Bone Broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/)\n- [**How to Can Bone Broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/)\n- [**Slow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper\/)\n- [**Bean and Ham Soup Recipe**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers\/)\n- [**Old-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker\/)\n- [**Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry\/)\n\n**Did you make this recipe?** If so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media **[@melissaknorris](https:\/\/instagram.com\/melissaknorris)** so I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens.\n\n![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-300x300.jpg)\n\n## Traditional Borscht Recipe\n[Melissa Norris](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/start-here\/)\n\nYou don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal **traditional borscht recipe** (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious.\n\n4\\.20 from 136 votes\n\nPrep Time 15 minutes\n\nCook Time 20 minutes\n\nTotal Time 35 minutes\n\nCourse Soup\n\nCuisine Ukrainian\n\nServings 6 servings\n\nCalories 119 kcal\n\n- ▢\n  Soup Pot\n- ▢\n  Kitchen Utensils *knife, cutting board, etc.*\n\n- ▢\n  1 cup celery *diced*\n- ▢\n  1 cup onions *diced*\n- ▢\n  1 cup cabbage *chopped*\n- ▢\n  2 cloves garlic *grated or pressed*\n- ▢\n  1 Tablespoon of butter *for sautéing onions and celery*\n- ▢\n  8 cups water *or beef broth\/chicken broth*\n- ▢\n  1 can diced tomatoes *1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought*\n- ▢\n  2 large beets *or 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced*\n- ▢\n  1 large carrots *or 2 medium, grated*\n- ▢\n  1 medium potato *diced*\n- ▢\n  1\/2 cup fresh dill weed\n- ▢\n  salt and pepper to taste *I love* [***Redmond Real Salt***](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/redmond-salt)***.*** *Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off*\n- ▢\n  bay leaf *optional*\n\n- Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent.\n- Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth.\n- Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer.\n- Peel the beets, carrots and potato.\n- Dice half the beets and grate the other half.\n- Grate all the carrots.\n- Dice the potato.\n- Add the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now.\n- Allow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat.\n- Stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper.\n- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!)\n\n**Ingredient Substitutions:**\n\n- **Butter** – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.\n- **Water** – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [**chicken bone broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve\/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [**pressure-can homemade chicken broth**](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home\/), so that’s usually what I have on hand.\n- **Optional Ingredients** – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised **[American Guinea Hogs](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/podcast\/raising-american-guinea-hogs\/)**.\n\n**Storing and Reheating Instructions:**\n\nBorscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill).\n\nTo freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months.\n\nWhen you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.\n\nServing: 1\\.5cupCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0\\.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0\\.1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 138mgPotassium: 747mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2564IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 2mg\n\n[Let us know](https:\/\/melissaknorris.com\/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht\/#comment) how it was\\!","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of homemade artisan bread or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. This recipe is from my friend Anna at The House and Homestead . Anna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).” Why You’ll Love This Recipe Frugal – Like Anna, I love to glean wisdom on living frugally from generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When working with a tight budget , soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste. Easy – I love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my from-scratch tomato soup , simple old-fashioned ham and bean soup , Great-Grandma’s fish stew , creamy delicata squash soup , this delicious slow cooker cream of broccoli soup , and, of course, hearty beef stew . Versatile – I love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish. What Is Borscht Originating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further. Every home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables. Subscribe to Melissa K. Norris! Get updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox. We use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our Privacy Notice . Ingredients A full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below. Diced Tomatoes – These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes. Beets – Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color. Fresh Dill Weed – Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 ½ Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch. Variations & Substitutions Anna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch. Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or chicken bone broth can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I pressure-can homemade chicken broth , so that’s usually what I have on hand. Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised American Guinea Hogs . How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe Step 1: Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. Step 2: Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. Step 3: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. Step 4: Peel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato. Step 5: Add the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now. Step 6: Allow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper. Step 7: Serve soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or homemade yogurt and a slice of homemade bread and butter (this Artisan bread or rye bread is equally amazing!). Storing and Reheating Instructions Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. FAQs What is traditional borscht made of? Traditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn how to grow beets here). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat. Is borscht Russian or Ukrainian? Borscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish. What to serve with borscht for dinner? For a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside homemade artisan bread slathered in butter. Other Posts You May Enjoy How to Make Bone Broth How to Can Bone Broth Slow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup Bean and Ham Soup Recipe Old-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry) Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media @melissaknorris so I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens. Traditional Borscht Recipe Melissa Norris You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. 4.20 from 136 votes Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 20 minutes Total Time 35 minutes Course Soup Cuisine Ukrainian Servings 6 servings Calories 119 kcal ▢ Soup Pot ▢ Kitchen Utensils knife, cutting board, etc. ▢ 1 cup celery diced ▢ 1 cup onions diced ▢ 1 cup cabbage chopped ▢ 2 cloves garlic grated or pressed ▢ 1 Tablespoon of butter for sautéing onions and celery ▢ 8 cups water or beef broth/chicken broth ▢ 1 can diced tomatoes 1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought ▢ 2 large beets or 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced ▢ 1 large carrots or 2 medium, grated ▢ 1 medium potato diced ▢ 1/2 cup fresh dill weed ▢ salt and pepper to taste I love Redmond Real Salt . Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off ▢ bay leaf optional Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. Peel the beets, carrots and potato. Dice half the beets and grate the other half. Grate all the carrots. Dice the potato. Add the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now. Allow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat. Stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!) Ingredient Substitutions: Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or chicken bone broth can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I pressure-can homemade chicken broth , so that’s usually what I have on hand. Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised American Guinea Hogs . Storing and Reheating Instructions: Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Serving: 1.5 cup Calories: 119 kcal Carbohydrates: 23 g Protein: 4 g Fat: 2 g Saturated Fat: 1 g Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g Trans Fat: 0.1 g Cholesterol: 5 mg Sodium: 138 mg Potassium: 747 mg Fiber: 5 g Sugar: 10 g Vitamin A: 2564 IU Vitamin C: 29 mg Calcium: 81 mg Iron: 2 mg Let us know how it was!
Markdown	![](https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=179455232646561&ev=PageView%0A&noscript=1) - [Skip to main content](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#genesis-content) - [Skip to header right navigation](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#nav-header-right) - [Skip to site footer](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#site-footer) [![Melissa K. Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cropped-logo.png)](https://melissaknorris.com/) Melissa K. Norris 5th-generation homesteader. Helping modern women live from scratch. [Log In](https://melissa-norris.mykajabi.com/login) Menu - [Start Here](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) - [Podcast](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/) - [Articles](https://melissaknorris.com/blog/) - [Natural Medicine Cabinet](https://melissaknorris.com/category/natural-medicine-cabinet/) - [Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/recipes/) - [Food Preservation](https://melissaknorris.com/category/food-preservation/food-preservation-canning/) - [Gardening](https://melissaknorris.com/category/raising-your-own-food/gardening/) - [Homestead-Life](https://melissaknorris.com/category/homestead-life/) - [Canning Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/canning-recipes/) - [Shop]() - [Books](https://melissaknorris.com/mybooks/) - [Classes](https://melissaknorris.com/classes/) - [General Store](https://melissaknorris.com/products/) - [Academy](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-academy-waitlist/) - [Log In](https://classes.melissaknorris.com/login) - search - [Start Here](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) - [Podcast](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/) - [Articles](https://melissaknorris.com/blog/) - [Natural Medicine Cabinet](https://melissaknorris.com/category/natural-medicine-cabinet/) - [Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/recipes/) - [Food Preservation](https://melissaknorris.com/category/food-preservation/food-preservation-canning/) - [Gardening](https://melissaknorris.com/category/raising-your-own-food/gardening/) - [Homestead-Life](https://melissaknorris.com/category/homestead-life/) - [Canning Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/canning-recipes/) - [Shop]() - [Books](https://melissaknorris.com/mybooks/) - [Classes](https://melissaknorris.com/classes/) - [General Store](https://melissaknorris.com/products/) - [Academy](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-academy-waitlist/) - [Log In](https://classes.melissaknorris.com/login) - search [Home](https://melissaknorris.com/) » [Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/recipes/) ![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg) # Traditional Borscht Recipe By [Melissa Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button "Share on Facebook") [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&text=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe "Share on Twitter") [Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&media=https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe "Share on Pinterest") November 20, 2019 Updated on: May 27, 2025 This post may contain affiliate links, please read [our disclosure policy.](https://melissaknorris.com/disclosure-disclaimer/) [Jump to Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#wprm-recipe-container-12789) You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of [homemade artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. ![Bird's eye view of traditional Ukranian borscht served in bowls and garnished with sour cream.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Bird_s-Eye_MKN-1024x683.jpg) This recipe is from my friend Anna at [The House and Homestead](https://thehouseandhomestead.com/). Anna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).” ![](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/HomesteadGifts-1.jpg) Table of Contents\[Hide\]\[Show\] - [Why You’ll Love This Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-why-you-ll-love-this-recipe) - [What Is Borscht](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-what-is-borscht) - [Ingredients](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-ingredients) - [Variations & Substitutions](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-variations-amp-substitutions) - [How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-how-to-make-a-traditional-borscht-recipe) - [Storing and Reheating Instructions](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-storing-and-reheating-instructions) - [FAQs](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-faqs) - [Other Posts You May Enjoy](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#h-other-posts-you-may-enjoy) - [Traditional Borscht Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#traditional-borscht-recipe) ## Why You’ll Love This Recipe - Frugal – Like Anna, I love to glean wisdom on [living frugally](https://melissaknorris.com/16-ways-from-1913-to-save-money-live-frugally/) from generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When [working with a tight budget](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/how-to-feed-a-family-of-4-on-82-50-a-week-with-organic-whole-chicken-and-real-food-sides/), soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste. - Easy – I love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my [from-scratch tomato soup](https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry/), simple [old-fashioned ham and bean soup](https://melissaknorris.com/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers/), [Great-Grandma’s fish stew](https://melissaknorris.com/fish-chowder-recipe-great-grandmas-from-1931-keto-friendly/), creamy [delicata squash soup](https://melissaknorris.com/creamy-delicata-squash-soup/), this delicious [slow cooker cream of broccoli soup](https://melissaknorris.com/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper/), and, of course, [hearty beef stew](https://melissaknorris.com/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/). - Versatile – I love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish. ## What Is Borscht ![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Originating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further. Every home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables. Subscribe to Melissa K. Norris\! Get updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox. We use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our [Privacy Notice](https://melissaknorris.com/privacy-policy/). ## Ingredients ![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) A full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below. - Diced Tomatoes – These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes. - Beets – Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color. - Fresh Dill Weed – Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 \½ Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch. ## Variations & Substitutions ![Browned sausage ready to add to the pot of traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Browned-Sausage-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Anna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch. - Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. - Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [chicken bone broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [pressure-can homemade chicken broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/), so that’s usually what I have on hand. - Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised [American Guinea Hogs](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/raising-american-guinea-hogs/). ## How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe ![Wooden bench knife scooping onions up and putting them into a bowl.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KoaBenchKnifescrapingonions-1024x683-1-edited-1.jpg) Step 1: Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. ![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 2: Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. ![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht cooking in a stock pot.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ingredients-in-a-Stock-Pot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 3: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. ![Diced beets, potatoes, and shredded carrots on a cutting board ready for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Potatoes-Carrots-and-Beets-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 4: Peel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato. ![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht in a stock pot ready to cook.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ready-to-Cook-in-a-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 5: Add the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now. ![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 6: Allow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper. Step 7: Serve soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or [homemade yogurt](https://melissaknorris.com/make-yogurt-home/) and a slice of homemade bread and butter (this [Artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) or rye bread is equally amazing!). ## Storing and Reheating Instructions Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. ## FAQs ![A spoon dipping into a bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread in the background.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Bowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) What is traditional borscht made of? Traditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn [how to grow beets](https://melissaknorris.com/grow-plant-beets/) here). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat. Is borscht Russian or Ukrainian? Borscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish. What to serve with borscht for dinner? For a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside [homemade artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) slathered in butter. ## Other Posts You May Enjoy ![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-1024x683.jpg) - [How to Make Bone Broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) - [How to Can Bone Broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/) - [Slow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup](https://melissaknorris.com/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper/) - [Bean and Ham Soup Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers/) - [Old-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker](https://melissaknorris.com/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/) - [Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)](https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry/) Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media [@melissaknorris](https://instagram.com/melissaknorris) so I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens. ![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-300x300.jpg) ## Traditional Borscht Recipe [Melissa Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. 4\.20 from 136 votes [Print Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/wprm_print/traditional-borscht-recipe) [Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F05%2FBowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional+Borscht+Recipe&is_video=false) Prep Time 15 minutes mins Cook Time 20 minutes mins Total Time 35 minutes mins Course Soup Cuisine Ukrainian Servings 6 servings Calories 119 kcal ### Equipment - ▢ Soup Pot - ▢ Kitchen Utensils knife, cutting board, etc. ### Ingredients 1x 2x 3x - ▢ 1 cup celery diced - ▢ 1 cup onions diced - ▢ 1 cup cabbage chopped - ▢ 2 cloves garlic grated or pressed - ▢ 1 Tablespoon of butter for sautéing onions and celery - ▢ 8 cups water or beef broth/chicken broth - ▢ 1 can diced tomatoes 1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought - ▢ 2 large beets or 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced - ▢ 1 large carrots or 2 medium, grated - ▢ 1 medium potato diced - ▢ 1/2 cup fresh dill weed - ▢ salt and pepper to taste I love [*Redmond Real Salt](https://melissaknorris.com/redmond-salt).* Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off - ▢ bay leaf optional ### Instructions - Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. - Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. - Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. - Peel the beets, carrots and potato. - Dice half the beets and grate the other half. - Grate all the carrots. - Dice the potato. - Add the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now. - Allow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat. - Stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper. - Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!) ### Notes Ingredient Substitutions: - Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. - Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [chicken bone broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [pressure-can homemade chicken broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/), so that’s usually what I have on hand. - Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised [American Guinea Hogs](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/raising-american-guinea-hogs/). Storing and Reheating Instructions: Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. ### Nutrition Serving: 1\.5cupCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0\.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0\.1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 138mgPotassium: 747mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2564IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 2mg Tried this recipe?[Let us know](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment) how it was\! ## 🍞 Struggling With Sourdough? ![Sourdough starter in a jar on a counter.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Sourdough-Starter-with-Bubbles-1024x683.jpg) If your starter won’t take off, your loaves are dense and hard, or sourdough just flat-out overwhelms you… 👉 [I’ll show you how to fix all of it.](https://melissaknorris.com/sourdough-webinar-registration/) Join my FREE workshop and learn how to make a bubbly, active starter—the right way, from Day One. [➡️ \[Save Your Spot Now\]](https://melissaknorris.com/sourdough-webinar-opt-in/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button "Share on Facebook") [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&text=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe "Share on Twitter") [Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/&media=https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN.jpg&description=Traditional%20Borscht%20Recipe "Share on Pinterest") Category: [Main Dish Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/recipes/main-dish/), [Recipes](https://melissaknorris.com/category/recipes/) ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=80&d=mm&r=g) #### About Melissa Norris Melissa K. Norris inspires people’s faith and pioneer roots with her books, podcast, and blog. Melissa lives with her husband and two children in their own little house in the big woods in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains. When she’s not wrangling chickens and cattle, you can find her stuffing Mason jars with homegrown food and playing with flour and sugar in the kitchen. ## Reader Interactions ### Comments 1. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2feabbd41a67ca64db79c970e496ee68698e3f870c9923cb85fd51cebdffa89?s=48&d=mm&r=g)roslyn fraser [January 31, 2025 at 12:54 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-71001) I just made this soup I used packaged beef bone broth & added a red chilli , tastes pretty good [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 2. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/906540ee01d871ddf18e25d8e01d595d72867f59adf45975696749d4005f15f7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Carol P [October 8, 2023 at 12:36 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-42006) Do you have a suggestion for substituting tomatoes. Is there something I can add in its place and would it still be good? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 3. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8f7fbff3a8d613c870e96a93cca8986edadf3c2003b64a9337a2dbe664414c47?s=48&d=mm&r=g)John [May 19, 2023 at 6:26 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-40547) We bought a container of borscht on Amazon and added: 1. beef broth 2. some string beans 3. diced, fried sausage 4. diced garlic Should be good\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 4. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/675b19c310ed9617c8c042d97b02ae3c58d8c35bd6452955be0d29edb3161c55?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike M [March 12, 2023 at 10:49 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-38826) An AMAZING soup addition is to use Pork SpareRibs, and Pork Hock to start your soup for the bone broth, and the meat addition. Simmer on low heat for the first 1/2 hour and skim the foam from the bones out of the stock before adding other ingredients\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 5. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/05ec12384a09e4756e0aedec25dfa74521964bd429c9fb02c0c546df5ba71f20?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Kaitlin [January 28, 2023 at 5:23 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-38066) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) I absolutely love this recipe! I made it using the 3x portioned ingredients. My dad and I used to make this soup when I was younger, but when he got sick, I couldn’t find the recipe to make it. This one tastes exactly how I remember it\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 6. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/dcd9ceef77b832aa5566b31e46dfa71ff4dbd51b14091d180c430db90c59640d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Dimitrios [January 10, 2023 at 9:16 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37659) I have a question. I had a lady from Ukraine that cooked borscht and she added at the end mayonnaise but she also told me sour cream its better. In your recipe is it different because its from a different part of Ukraine? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 7. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/95416b7fda5de4bb82b53abf1acb425bdab0c5518c462b6784550f688ae82e76?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katy [January 9, 2023 at 4:59 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37622) Hi Melissa! I have your new preserving book but this recipe isn’t in there. Can I pressure can this for the same time as your veggie soup recipe? Omitting the cabbage of course. Thanks\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Melissa Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) [January 10, 2023 at 4:58 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37664) No, because you can’t can pureed beets. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4d26ac2bed0fa46dffed7bf36a07aba3ca451220150c72b7852962ed6fd94217?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Shelley [January 16, 2024 at 9:47 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-44388) If you cook them long enough before you skin them, put them in a blender and they will be pureed. Easy peasy. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 8. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5bd9eecdd805c33efb376475cc560b14f5e3271f3afaa3e54dbfbd452b9af534?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Nicole [January 5, 2023 at 12:27 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37519) This is a very good recipe and I make it for my Ukrainian friend and she loves it! She told me also that she eats this soup cold on hot days in the summertime. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 9. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/76a305d03f596c8cb83c5d58971972a2d18757b18c119568c7188dd38826d489?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalie Hursky [December 16, 2022 at 7:00 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37131) It’s offensive to Ukrainians to refer to our country as “the” Ukraine – it’s not a territory – that is Russian propaganda. Ukraine was, is and shall be a proud independent country. UNESCO, the UN’s cultural agency, has registered “Ukrainian borscht,” the beet-based soup, as part of Ukraine’s “intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding,” a move that Ukraine’s culture minister lauded as “victory in the borscht war.” [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4ad06240bda941ca706164688b0c33f3877c8bcc37e5d35b2be92abcd39aff6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Rita [October 4, 2025 at 10:10 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-102645) 🙏 [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 10. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c63047c2e53b8003ad92e40aa4efdbb967e001e4ac4057f6b88716f53e3c7f8?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Sophie [October 6, 2022 at 7:04 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-34332) Delicious!!!I first had Borscht at 9 y.o..Thought I ‘d have to fake liking it…I LOVED IT!!Now my 21 y.o.sin gets to enjoy this AMAZING borscht Thank you! P.s.I love that it is rich in iron and so healthy. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 11. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/237f474b9b1ac5643d30a28ac547576aa83f885aaa11d9e0e1eec2b580c2da3b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Bob T [October 3, 2022 at 1:03 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-34248) In your recipe, you put the potatoes into the pot after the tomatoes. In my experience, potato does not cook with tomato – it can stay hard. Your beets – there are several types. I assume that yours are what we in Australia and UK call beetroot, and are purple in colour. This looks great. One Ukrainian friend sent me a video of her making ‘borsh’ (maybe did not translate well from Russian) and I found this to help me. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 12. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5c4d7a962074f5f0651b58f93955562d922ef8a8595e40453b4b1ba552cebcd4?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Gary [July 3, 2022 at 6:56 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-32473) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) I’m a big fan of borscht, but most people serve it as a fall/winter dish, including some that mention it here. Great, yes, but a favorite of mine is to have it in the summer. After it cools, put it in the blender and purée it. Keep it in a pitcher in the refrigerator and serve as a cold soup, or just enjoy a little cold glass of it. (I won’t mention that a bit of vodka in it makes a different spin on a Bloody Mary! Oops, I did) [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 13. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/595498213b5ae63f61483f570582e0bb5033813f30766f6244ca36ecc171d221?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Prue [March 6, 2022 at 12:27 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-29371) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) I made 3x the recipe for a group of 21 women who loved it. I added kielbasa. We topped the bowls with sour cream. The soup was cheered to express our support for Ukraine during this time of the Russian invasionl [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 14. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/88c5dac89de59338c87437d9ec0e5b82da60cf86dbc2d5609f6cae728f137c57?s=48&d=mm&r=g)mla mla [February 27, 2022 at 7:04 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-29039) good [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 15. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/37b097e703bb280a0fb78728af9706bf6ca439232e49887378c5d90b3195ef07?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marlys Bliesner [January 20, 2022 at 4:41 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-28099) Enjoyed all your information re: borscht history, etc. My 4 grand parents came from the Ukraine (about 1900) . My Mother and Aunts made borscht but a little different from your recipe. As you said, they used what they had. I make it vegetarian. Several other ethnic foods my Mom made but I would have no way of spelling them. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 16. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/15417dd4ee5d78a937bd65d317a84436351dd2543b82fb75aac2e25072144d29?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lesley [September 24, 2021 at 5:03 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-16802) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) Great Recipe, thanks for sharing 🙂 [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 17. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/15417dd4ee5d78a937bd65d317a84436351dd2543b82fb75aac2e25072144d29?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lesley [September 24, 2021 at 5:01 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-16801) Hi, Thanks for sharing this authentic ukranian borscht recipe. I made two large pots and shared with a neighbour! Namaste 🙂 [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 18. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/20503402069e0af2d4be47dcb99826773de604eb3c518faaf51c7fe9549d8fd9?s=48&d=mm&r=g)J [August 11, 2021 at 3:08 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-16140) We always add slices of boiled egg ,which I find yummy but that is my Grandma’s Ukrainian version .Love Borscht [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 19. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/1feb7c73e66d9f19a2dfb2126aa12859be050aba2d235bab98633e3f8e438213?s=48&d=mm&r=g)k [July 25, 2021 at 3:07 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-15893) You don’t put celery into borscht. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8781080fd01a1d9dfec10ef4b9188643fcc3002c92692b34cd3fa06d557ac452?s=48&d=mm&r=g)John K. [November 19, 2023 at 8:50 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-42906) you use what you have. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 20. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3fd802e5b11eb82320b601496fbb426c0a95fac685467ab6d3f15ee112c0b560?s=48&d=mm&r=g)SW [July 11, 2021 at 3:09 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-15583) Seems like a great recipe\! My Ukrainian great-grandmother used to add parsnips and some salo to borshch, too. I never tried adding salo to borshch, but parsnips do add great flavor. They are difficult to find in modern times, though. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 21. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9866724a6160de57ced9bf8763082edda84aa402b0586e5e09c0849ed7383240?s=48&d=mm&r=g)TR [May 27, 2021 at 1:15 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-14791) ![4 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-4.svg) Today I’m making Rabbit Borscht. My husband’s family is Ukrainian and 1/2 of family is Eastern European. I’ve made borscht for years…we usually use a beef roast for base, lots of beets and the fresh green tops. We take the potatoes and boil, then saute with butter and lots of dill. We also used Sour Salt…hard to find, so today I’m going to try the apple cider vinegar. I’m going to cut up the rabbit (from a friend’s family who raises meat rabbits), brown and then add everything into an electric pressure cooker. What’s great about borscht is that if you don’t have something like cabbage, you can still make it…Thanks for your recipe! I’m going to follow as much as possible and let you know how it all comes out tonight\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/208fff8d06bbdb176b5ecaf04e42495cd48acd80a0f48275b03f08eec813b029?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debra [January 22, 2022 at 12:11 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-28125) Omg—when my grandmother made this she used sour salt (otherwise known as citric salt). We ate it cold with sour cream and a hot boiled potato in each dish. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 22. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/7b932eabfa9b588d232dafd5b068da688ecf6a645de06a7bbc6e5ef62ef05ce7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Elizabeth [March 4, 2021 at 12:01 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-12740) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) My family has Ukrainian friends who introduced us to Borscht when we visited more than 15 years ago. It’s one of my favorite cold-weather meals and always reminds me of warm hugs. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 23. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4eefe75a6c3a069f5bc491777363d842155731b944ecdb6552fb2af23a8eb609?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalka Miller [December 25, 2020 at 4:34 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-11662) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) This borscht recipe is very authentic and exactly how my parents make it. They always make it vegetarian as this is how they made it in Ukraine. I am very proud of my Ukrainian heritage\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 24. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/153f909064f6516f629ddb87fa0c3e80eba9980b323a5f22ef2163716547ecce?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Donna [December 13, 2020 at 5:53 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-11444) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) I didn’t think I liked borscht but this was really good. My husband thanks you. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 25. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/efa72c0f7c5d1ae73e85f6d8c472904de9f25c1f27f48fa92a342d69e7f98438?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike Penchorka [December 7, 2020 at 10:42 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-11345) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) If you want to intensify the beet flavour, roast 2-3 beets wrapped in foil at 375 for about hour. Once cooled, grate or chop and add near the end after the potatoes are cooked through. add some Red wine vinegar. This is the way my mom and baba made it… [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 26. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/90373f41e6f030c90724314730af08f792c80ffdad6c5f8bda86ef47d984f618?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Daria [December 2, 2020 at 11:15 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-11227) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) I found your explanation of Borsht and your general explanation of Ukrainian food and its sensibility 100% relatable. It’s as if I wrote it myself. Although I’m the American daughter of immigrants, Ukrainian pride was instilled in me from birth. We are strong, resourceful, and food is an expression of love and the source of comfort. I’m so proud of my heritage\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 27. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c8b8045d9344e2e22523aa2b533c2589ce266b713939157fec31b930241db37b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katie B [September 24, 2020 at 3:10 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9763) Um… Where’s the recipe? I’ve made this before and love, but now the recipe space is just filled with an ad. Was hoping to make this tonight, but I guess I’ll to wing it. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Melissa Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) [September 25, 2020 at 8:26 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9768) We just updated the website and it took a little time to get the recipe cards up, but it’s there now\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c8b8045d9344e2e22523aa2b533c2589ce266b713939157fec31b930241db37b?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Katie B [March 14, 2021 at 4:30 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-12890) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) Thanks so much, Melissa! I’m glad to see it back up there and updated. Guess I just had bad timing. But I think I remembered it pretty well, lol\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 28. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ab2b01ece1682fda334377df1585a35769c7210e48f9a9eb66bb85a2f38c93a4?s=48&d=mm&r=g)[Connie](http://caborealestate.info/) [September 16, 2020 at 3:09 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9730) This is a great recipe! I used beef tenderloin sauteed first in a little olive oil salt and pepper to brown then removed and followed the rest of the recipe, added the beef back in after the onions and cabbage had sauteed. I added two bunches of beet greens, one bunch kale, green beans and it turned out perfectly. I now have a big pot to separate and freeze meals for later. Thanks for this great find. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 29. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/35e4690cfcbffac15f3ae0b8c85e9d79d6e9d5eede079fb537855bffaf81e9b2?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Amy Meyer [August 16, 2020 at 2:16 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9588) I’m not Ukrainian .. but if I could choose to be, I would ! Love the Ukrainian people and their culture. I notice they haven’t needed govt funding to practice their culture either ! Very touching to see the multi generational dancing. I make borscht every summer now after my friend showed my the frying pan / boiling pot method many years ago 🙂 [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 30. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/192af8f40a98168c6982fc259f809e5d194c5a4ee82fbf32e670c1c433801732?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Victoria Godin (Kulyk) [July 15, 2020 at 3:25 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9395) Tried your recipe. It was excellent!! It so reminded me of being with my grandma. Thank you for sharing. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 31. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8d423097f2e60c39faa44e34ff5b7bb42d1fc203ad269b617d8e07f683c862f7?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Dc [April 18, 2020 at 8:52 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8959) Hi there, thank you for this recipe. I barely know what borscht is but had a ton of beets and cabbage. Made this recipe and it’s amazing! I didn’t have any potato so I added peas. Wish I had fresh dill but it still works well without! I also threw in one spoonful of vinegar. Did not think I’d be into beet soup but I am really happy with how this turned out. Thank you\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 32. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/53f59a519a0bf0614429412bdeb249fb493cd435b324359710c1423f1459e63d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Catherine Hughes [March 4, 2020 at 2:21 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8728) I lived in Ukraine for a year and always looked forward to my host mother, Galina, making borscht on a weekly basis. Some recipes for the soup were so intimidating that I psyched myself into not trying to recreate this favorite. Literally fifteen years later, I finally tried it, thanks to this recipe. Borscht always requires a few steps with all the vegetable-chopping, but this recipe made the process more accessible. My host mom always add beef stew-chunks, so I incorporated those into the soup. I have now made it twice and my kids and husband really enjoy it. Thank you so much\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 33. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/740672ecac47d9ccafcae9cef2d88464f5d60dfaedd891fb8f52b6df4e777217?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Amy Weeks [November 14, 2019 at 8:30 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8408) Any idea how many cups this recipe makes? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anna Sakawsky [November 17, 2019 at 12:13 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8421) Hi Amy, Ya know, I’ve never measured it out exactly and when I asked my mother she wasn’t even sure! But my best estimate would be about 12 cups or so, give or take. It also depends on your preferences and if you want to add an extra beet or handful of veggies, etc. But I would guess it’s around 12 cups in the end. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 34. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/682ff528f4b9a9ff1295efb72a96e04bb48bac2d3f491ecdf62877aa32ffa7f5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Glynis [October 31, 2019 at 6:57 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8361) Thanks for this wonderful recipe. I’ve been making borscht for years, using a variety of recipes and this is, by far, the best I’ve tried. I added a little bit of left-over meatloaf that I had in the fridge and used plain yogurt instead of sour cream. Your borscht will become a staple in our household. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 35. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9f517765139aa3b99ad6188dbf4becf7253622f1f15fdbf4349093b601840ad5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Vanessa [October 17, 2019 at 5:25 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8280) Quick question: does this recipe freeze well? Any tips for freezing? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b158cd11b24725f75ab62a2961acfb4ad1a3b4502986354cff24715f7a64e8d3?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Nadia [December 20, 2022 at 10:34 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37214) Yes! I freeze it in Ziploc bags. Flavor unchanged\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 36. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38b3eef995819a93fd2f6a246c783373a4341c4f5f74053ee9c6e0984464fa9a?s=48&d=mm&r=g)David [October 10, 2019 at 7:01 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8256) Hi Anna, Thanks for posting this recipe and the stories. My fiance is Ukrainian and is still there. I just got back home from Kharkiv, and I fell in love with Ukraine. My family roots are Balkan, and I felt strangely at home there. I wanted to ask, where are you homesteading? Thanks again for the recipe. I Aldo AM going to make Okroshka and want to surprise Ira with my culinary acumen. 🙂 Dave [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 37. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/43f73432a22f29c5580fcb97a78bc39bd67c6fb3bb78f56d0df9575a22df08c9?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Mike Allard [September 30, 2019 at 1:27 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8221) Thank you, have been making borscht this time of year for the past few seasons. Am in full agreement with the frugality of using what’s at hand. Like the old world, Ukrainian references, and making do. The way many people have had to. And I love borscht topped with sour cream\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 38. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f42f9ace7856d55906ba186aa4559595d1cabd1f89840cab084b474142c36dee?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Travis [May 1, 2019 at 6:45 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7849) Tried making borscht for the first time yesterday and this recipe came out great. Thank you for sharing. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 39. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f12da434f76e2c26271232b22f29dae803b50f1561d87f0637bb9e56fbc9a3cd?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marnie [April 4, 2019 at 7:54 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7798) Coming from a Ukrainian family, we ate borscht all the time. It was never my favorite soup. When I made your recipe, I LOVED it and I make it all the time. Thanks so very much. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 40. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d121a5bbfbf3af8c4c359fde8e7466ca5446338c6231296948b50c79e035c7e1?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Barbara [December 29, 2018 at 9:40 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7514) Red or green cabbage? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/76a305d03f596c8cb83c5d58971972a2d18757b18c119568c7188dd38826d489?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Natalie Hursky [December 16, 2022 at 7:06 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-37132) ![5 stars](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-recipe-maker/assets/icons/rating/stars-alt-5.svg) Green cabbage. Beet greens are great too, if buying beets with the tops. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 41. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c0073f0e9594a2048f8f8789ae88d13031bd279103aa1ed25d8c1deb309af102?s=48&d=mm&r=g)stephanie wohlberg [December 29, 2018 at 6:47 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7512) My Baba and my mother always made borscht with just potatoes,onions,peas and dill and of course beets and then they would put whipping cream into your soup before serving by just bringing it to a boil I find that it is much better than adding sour cream or yogurt. Its heavenly. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 42. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c4d40f5c298ec2c0945ca754a6c2c05ca024c949a47218e1b092b4c201f9962e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Lorrie [October 8, 2018 at 12:36 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7324) Making a huge pot of this for my freezer. Snow is on the ground and more is expected this week, so I went hunting for a recipe that looked like what my mom made, growing up. Can’t wait to get this on the stove! Question…is there a preferred type of potato for this? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 43. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/56f80766ddde68018aec244845d769fefced1a4b224796d53ac80534452e389c?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Liz [September 23, 2018 at 2:56 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7279) Thank you! I grew “too many” beets and carrots and your recipe was helpful and liberating. We are having borscht tonight thanks to your mom. I hope you can tell her thank you for me. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 44. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f752ace8f3f6b7d9057cac84622f2031d8b8c6766539be2ae5f5ba6a89df3054?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Azriel Collier [September 23, 2018 at 1:16 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7278) I’ve eaten Borscht many times and it is actually originally from russian jews/hebrews who made it for Pesach/Passover and also for Sukkot. As a Nazrine, we usually serve it up right after the “communion” where we tear the unleavened bread and blessing it as our Messiah did. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3f936ae44e10288833943e83724c03f67593598d5b5ed4c010358f3f77669595?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Marko [October 30, 2019 at 8:05 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-8354) You are incorrect. Borscht origins were Ukrainian or from what is now Ukraine and spread from there. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4de266753dd2deadd64585c613498978470cb9f864dfc567d254170eccac0700?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Wes [January 11, 2021 at 1:14 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-11983) You are incorrect (somewhat) also while he was correct (somewhat). It did originate in that area, by the Jews and others, in Ukraine. What? You did not know that there were Jews in Ukraine??? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 45. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/65b3e9794f96288683af5a9a30ae1985f2ef3ad71d8899b9325e104e4de71b49?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Sha [September 13, 2018 at 7:46 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-7250) Hi there. Just wondering how you would incorporate the ground pork or pork sausage into your borscht soup recipe? I don’t see any mention of quantity and also may I ask how much soup does your recipe make? I may double up and make a double or triple batch and portion it all out and freeze. Ok thanks for any help and tips that you may have. God bless you from Sk Canada Sha [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d27daab0709a86de84474603d0fbcc6e9f84294cf3b45c66ca3a6f96cefea31d?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debbie [April 13, 2023 at 1:29 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-39751) In Ukraine, when they add the meat, it is cooked separately like in a slow cooker and then added at the end for those who want meat. If you want to add while cooking, you can dice up some pork pieces and brown them in the pot first then continue on its the recipe. Not quantity specific. As little or as much as you want or have on hand. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 46. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/407b5110a9a8e23c6ba7d9a32fdab0137deacfa8bb96e8745d332d261bc767a8?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Krys [November 8, 2017 at 5:44 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6582) Melissa, Love your site and articles. Could you please add a PDF of your we pages and articles. I don’t want to miss a thing but there are times I don’t get to get on the puter for days at a time the PDF would help me keep up and I would bet a bunch of others. Keep up the excellent work and God Bless my friend. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12f8c066c44e999984a8be42bafb393d044f155c202c0155a3fe6fdfa0fdc54a?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Allan Ferman [September 1, 2022 at 3:12 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-33623) enjoyed your comments am interested in the canning and freezing methods In canning , even with new sealing tops I frequently get lost a leaky seal and then fungus ..can you help ? [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) 47. ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9f234a16eedf70045f98d7341fcea9dd56cb8dd7f2b83714592b658461bf43ac?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Debbie [November 3, 2017 at 1:29 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6557) Looks so delicious. With the ugly weather outside, I can’t think of anything better than a big pot of borscht. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris [November 3, 2017 at 5:26 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6560) We’re supposed to get snow tomorrow and I might have to dig up a few of the beets left in the ground to make a pot\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6befefbb3412a1d37b86a53a42e55cbc7d4939ea60f54794d42b9f9a4826b34e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Christie Fairchild [November 4, 2017 at 7:34 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6566) Thanks for the great recipe for borscht. I have my mom’s yellowed, splattered, 3×5 card for hers, but this one adds fresh dill – looks delicious! One suggestion for a lower fat version – use plain yogurt to top instead of sour cream – is that a sacrilege? Hope not, because it’s really good that way. Snowing again – guess it’s time to make a pot of soup…mmmmmm\! [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris [November 5, 2017 at 5:40 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6567) Hi Christie, I often use plain yogurt in place of sour cream mainly because I always have yogurt, not the case with sour cream. 🙂 [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anna Sakawsky [November 5, 2017 at 7:48 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6568) Christie I often use yogurt (shhh! Don’t tell my mom!). I think it’s sacrilege in her eyes, but not mine! I often have Greek Yogurt in my fridge which makes the perfect substitute. The soup could always be eaten without sour cream (and bread and butter) for a really low-fat version, but I have to admit it wouldn’t be quite as good;) [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/b50c27d8281e46e338cf10a204fac7753f286be50bc7897f8818d842bdb6425e?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Melissa Norris [November 5, 2017 at 7:04 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6570) lol, Anna I love this, I”m the same with cornbread, my Grandmother would skin me for using yellow corn instead of white. - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0a143bb8692982777a61d4ed9b7c0af9eeb85aeb89a54baecb2da85977f264b6?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Anastasia Sakawsky [November 6, 2017 at 12:59 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-6572) Right? What they don’t know can’t hurt them;) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/876fd260b14e3e36e8b4d139d25b9b0d16329266bddccab2c43bb69206e838bb?s=48&d=mm&r=g)john [August 29, 2020 at 3:28 am](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9653) I always add a half cup of apple cider vinegar. [Log in to Reply](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) - ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c953a86098468e160237ee4c0d5e77e8205ff1739c242b57dd27a3c9706c4fd5?s=48&d=mm&r=g)Jenna [September 5, 2020 at 12:24 pm](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment-9676) John – My Baba would always add vinegar as well, and never put in potatoes. Then it would can beautifully. 4\.20 from 136 votes ([124 ratings without comment](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/)) ### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#respond) You must be [logged in](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmelissaknorris.com%2Fborscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht%2F) to post a comment. ![A woman in the kitchen with jars of home canned food.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHP_2912-edited-scaled.jpg) ## Howdy, I’m Melissa\! I’m so glad you’re here. This is the place for all of us who loved Little House when we were young and thought Laura was our best friend. It’s where we grow dinner in the backyard and think everything looks and tastes better when it comes from a Mason jar. 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Readable Markdown	You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version served alongside a loaf of [homemade artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. ![Bird's eye view of traditional Ukranian borscht served in bowls and garnished with sour cream.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Bird_s-Eye_MKN-1024x683.jpg) This recipe is from my friend Anna at [The House and Homestead](https://thehouseandhomestead.com/). Anna says, “I come from good Ukrainian stock. I know this because my mother never lets me forget it. I’m reminded at every family gathering, at every communal meal, and pretty much every other chance my mother gets to tell me (or anyone else).” ![](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/HomesteadGifts-1.jpg) ## Why You’ll Love This Recipe - Frugal – Like Anna, I love to glean wisdom on [living frugally](https://melissaknorris.com/16-ways-from-1913-to-save-money-live-frugally/) from generations past. One of my favorite resources is historical recipes. There is something very special about sorting through Grandma’s old recipe cards and continuing her legacy of resourceful living. When [working with a tight budget](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/how-to-feed-a-family-of-4-on-82-50-a-week-with-organic-whole-chicken-and-real-food-sides/), soups come to the rescue. They incorporate all kinds of odds and ends from the garden and pantry, making sure nothing goes to waste. - Easy – I love a basic recipe that’s easy to make. This one is no exception! Some of my other favorite easy soup recipes are my [from-scratch tomato soup](https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry/), simple [old-fashioned ham and bean soup](https://melissaknorris.com/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers/), [Great-Grandma’s fish stew](https://melissaknorris.com/fish-chowder-recipe-great-grandmas-from-1931-keto-friendly/), creamy [delicata squash soup](https://melissaknorris.com/creamy-delicata-squash-soup/), this delicious [slow cooker cream of broccoli soup](https://melissaknorris.com/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper/), and, of course, [hearty beef stew](https://melissaknorris.com/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/). - Versatile – I love that this recipe is customizable for whatever you have in your refrigerator (or growing in the garden). This hearty soup is as rich in flavor as it is in color. It makes an impressive presentation at the table as a precursor to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish. ## What Is Borscht ![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Originating in Eastern Europe, borscht is a deep, ruby-colored beet-based soup that incorporates whatever else is growing in your garden to create a hearty, healthy meal. It’s a great tool to stretch your food budget and weekly meals just a little bit further. Every home should have a Borscht recipe, regardless of whether you’re Ukrainian or not. This traditional Ukrainian soup combines the earthiness of beets with the freshness of dill and other vegetables. Subscribe to Melissa K. Norris\! Get updates on the latest posts and more from Melissa K. Norris straight to your inbox. We use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our [Privacy Notice](https://melissaknorris.com/privacy-policy/). ## Ingredients ![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) A full ingredients list, including measurements, can be found in the printable recipe card below. - Diced Tomatoes – These can be a large, 28-oz can of commercially prepared or a one-quart jar of home-canned tomatoes. - Beets – Choose 2 or 3 medium to large-sized peeled beets. Grate half and dice the other half for the best texture and color. - Fresh Dill Weed – Traditional Ukrainian borscht uses fresh dill, but 2 \½ Tablespoons of dried dill can be used in a pinch. ## Variations & Substitutions ![Browned sausage ready to add to the pot of traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Browned-Sausage-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Anna’s mother always made vegetarian borscht, but the beauty of this soup is that you can pretty much throw in whatever you have on hand to make use of fresh ingredients and make your meals really stretch. - Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. - Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [chicken bone broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [pressure-can homemade chicken broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/), so that’s usually what I have on hand. - Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised [American Guinea Hogs](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/raising-american-guinea-hogs/). ## How to Make a Traditional Borscht Recipe ![Wooden bench knife scooping onions up and putting them into a bowl.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KoaBenchKnifescrapingonions-1024x683-1-edited-1.jpg) Step 1: Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. ![Adding ingredients to a stockpot for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Water-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 2: Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. ![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht cooking in a stock pot.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ingredients-in-a-Stock-Pot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 3: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. ![Diced beets, potatoes, and shredded carrots on a cutting board ready for traditional Ukranian borscht.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Potatoes-Carrots-and-Beets-for-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 4: Peel the beets, carrots and potatoes. Dice half the beets and carrots and grate the other half. Dice the potato. ![Ingredients for traditional Ukranian borscht in a stock pot ready to cook.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Ready-to-Cook-in-a-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 5: Add the beets, carrots and potatoes to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables ( beans, peas, beet greens, etc.), do so now. ![Adding fresh dill to a stock pot full of traditional Ukranian borscht](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Adding-Dill-to-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht_MKN-683x1024.jpg) Step 6: Allow the soup to simmer on medium until the diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt, and black pepper. Step 7: Serve soup hot with a dollop of sour cream or [homemade yogurt](https://melissaknorris.com/make-yogurt-home/) and a slice of homemade bread and butter (this [Artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) or rye bread is equally amazing!). ## Storing and Reheating Instructions Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. ## FAQs ![A spoon dipping into a bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread in the background.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Bowls-of-Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-with-Stockpot_MKN-683x1024.jpg) What is traditional borscht made of? Traditional Ukrainian borscht starts with beets for its red color and sweet taste (learn [how to grow beets](https://melissaknorris.com/grow-plant-beets/) here). It also includes cabbage, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, meat or sausage is added. For a veggie version, mushrooms or plant-based proteins can replace the meat. Is borscht Russian or Ukrainian? Borscht comes from Eastern Europe, with versions in Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Regarding the debate of whether Borscht is Ukrainian or Russian, it’s believed to originate from Ukraine; however, Russia now has its own similar version of this traditional dish. What to serve with borscht for dinner? For a hearty dinner, I add pork sausage to the borscht recipe and top it with a dollop of sour cream, more fresh dill and sometimes even a hard-boiled egg. Then, I serve it alongside [homemade artisan bread](https://melissaknorris.com/pioneering-today-bake-your-own-bread-no-kneading/) slathered in butter. ## Other Posts You May Enjoy ![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-1024x683.jpg) - [How to Make Bone Broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) - [How to Can Bone Broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/) - [Slow Cooker Cream of Broccoli and Ham Soup](https://melissaknorris.com/slow-cooker-cream-of-broccoli-and-ham-soup-frugal-supper/) - [Bean and Ham Soup Recipe](https://melissaknorris.com/bean-and-ham-soup-frugal-suppers/) - [Old-fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Instant Pot or Slow Cooker](https://melissaknorris.com/beef-stew-recipe-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/) - [Homemade Tomato Soup (From the Pantry)](https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-tomato-soup-from-the-pantry/) Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a star ⭐ rating and your comments in the recipe card below (this really helps me out)… then, snap a photo and tag me on social media [@melissaknorris](https://instagram.com/melissaknorris) so I can see! I love getting a glimpse of what you all make in your kitchens. ![Bowl of traditional Ukranian borscht with slices of bread.](https://melissaknorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Traditional-Ukrainian-Borscht-Hero_MKN-300x300.jpg) ## Traditional Borscht Recipe [Melissa Norris](https://melissaknorris.com/start-here/) You don’t have to be an experienced cook to make this easy and frugal traditional borscht recipe (aka beet and cabbage soup). This recipe is so versatile, which is great for using up leftover veggies or whatever produce is growing in the garden. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add beef, pork, or sausage, it’s equally delicious. 4\.20 from 136 votes Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 20 minutes Total Time 35 minutes Course Soup Cuisine Ukrainian Servings 6 servings Calories 119 kcal - ▢ Soup Pot - ▢ Kitchen Utensils knife, cutting board, etc. - ▢ 1 cup celery diced - ▢ 1 cup onions diced - ▢ 1 cup cabbage chopped - ▢ 2 cloves garlic grated or pressed - ▢ 1 Tablespoon of butter for sautéing onions and celery - ▢ 8 cups water or beef broth/chicken broth - ▢ 1 can diced tomatoes 1 quart home-canned or a 28-oz can of store-bought - ▢ 2 large beets or 3 medium beets, half grated and half diced - ▢ 1 large carrots or 2 medium, grated - ▢ 1 medium potato diced - ▢ 1/2 cup fresh dill weed - ▢ salt and pepper to taste I love [*Redmond Real Salt](https://melissaknorris.com/redmond-salt).* Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off - ▢ bay leaf optional - Sauté the onions, celery and cabbage with the butter until soft and translucent. - Add the can of diced tomatoes and the garlic, as well as all of the water or broth. - Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let simmer. - Peel the beets, carrots and potato. - Dice half the beets and grate the other half. - Grate all the carrots. - Dice the potato. - Add the beets, carrots and potato to the broth. If you would like to add any other optional vegetables (ie. beans, peas, beet greens, etc.) do so now. - Allow soup to simmer on medium until diced beets and potatoes are soft (test them with a fork or by biting into them!), about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat. - Stir in chopped fresh dill weed and salt and black pepper. - Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread and butter (rye bread is best!) Ingredient Substitutions: - Butter – The traditional recipe calls for butter, but you could use olive, avocado or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option. - Water – For a vegetarian version, you can use water or vegetable broth, but beef or [chicken bone broth](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/podcast-48-make-bone-broth-5-ways-preserve/) can also be used for a deeper flavor profile. I [pressure-can homemade chicken broth](https://melissaknorris.com/how-to-can-bone-broth-at-home/), so that’s usually what I have on hand. - Optional Ingredients – You can add in bay leaves, green beans, peas, beet greens and shredded pork or pork sausage as desired. With hungry guys in my house, we usually opt to add in pork from our home-raised [American Guinea Hogs](https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/raising-american-guinea-hogs/). Storing and Reheating Instructions: Borscht will freeze exceptionally well, and it’s a great way to use up all sorts of late summer and fall vegetables from your garden that you might not think to combine otherwise (like tomatoes, carrots, beets and dill). To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. (You’ll need to leave an inch or two for expansion.) Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost the borscht in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Serving: 1\.5cupCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0\.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0\.1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 138mgPotassium: 747mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2564IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 2mg [Let us know](https://melissaknorris.com/borscht-recipe-how-to-make-moms-traditional-ukrainian-borscht/#comment) how it was\!
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