Name: Borscht
Cook time: 45 minutes
Yield: Makes 2 quarts
Ingredients: 2 quarts beef, chicken, or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 onions, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried marjoram; 2 celery stalks, trimmed, thinly sliced; 2 parsnips, peeled, thinly sliced; 1 carrot, peeled, thinly sliced; 1 leek, white and light green parts, thinly sliced; 1/2 head savoy cabbage, shredded; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; 2 beets, peeled, grated; 1/4 cup dill, minced; 2-3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, or as needed; 1/2 cup sour cream

Image may contain Bowl Dish Food Meal Soup Bowl and Soup

BorschtCIA/Keith Ferris

Borscht is one of those soups that has dozens of variations. This version of the classic Russian beet soup uses lots of vegetables and a touch of bacon for extra flavor. You can leave the bacon out and use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian soup. Grating the beets into the soup releases maximum beet flavor. Though this recipe calls for the borscht to be served hot, it is also delicious when served cold.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Vegan Chili

This vegan chili skips the meat but keeps all of the smoky-savory flavors that make it so comforting: cocoa powder, beans, and all of the toppings.