Beet soup is a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold. With its rich color and earthy sweetness, this soup is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and can be customized to suit different tastes. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Rich: Beets are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Simple and Quick: Made with minimal ingredients and ready in under an hour.
- Customizable: Can be served hot or cold, smooth or chunky.
- Naturally Sweet and Earthy: The natural sweetness of beets balances beautifully with savory flavors.
- Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy warm in winter or chilled as a refreshing summer dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Beets, peeled and chopped
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Carrots, diced
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Olive oil or butter
- Lemon juice or vinegar (for brightness)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh dill or parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, and carrots, and cook until softened.
- Add Beets and Broth: Stir in chopped beets and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until beets are tender.
- Blend the Soup (Optional): Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky for texture.
- Season and Finish: Stir in lemon juice or vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Add a swirl of sour cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Creamy Beet Soup: Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Roasted Beet Soup: Roast the beets before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.
- Cold Beet Soup (Borscht Style): Chill the soup and serve with fresh cucumbers and dill.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or shredded chicken for extra protein.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Do I need to peel the beets before cooking?
Yes, peeling helps remove the earthy bitterness and gives the soup a smoother texture.
Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh beets have a richer flavor. If using canned, reduce cooking time.
How do I prevent beet stains?
Wear gloves when handling beets and clean surfaces immediately after chopping.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until beets are tender.
Is beet soup vegan?
Yes, if made with vegetable broth and without dairy-based toppings.
What can I serve with beet soup?
Crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad pair well.
How can I make beet soup thicker?
Blend the soup longer or add a potato while cooking for extra thickness.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
What herbs go well with beet soup?
Dill, parsley, thyme, and chives complement the flavor beautifully.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Potatoes, celery, or parsnips add extra depth.
Conclusion
Easy beet soup is a healthy, colorful, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its earthy sweetness and velvety texture, it’s a comforting meal that’s as beautiful as it is nutritious. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy a homemade bowl of beet goodness!
Print
Easy Beet Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: Eastern European-Inspired
Description
This Easy Beet Soup is vibrant, nutritious, and full of earthy flavors. It’s quick to make, naturally sweet, and perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it hot or chilled with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs!
Ingredients
- 3 medium beets, peeled and chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 L) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 small potato, diced (optional, for a thicker soup)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh for garnish)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving, optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
2️⃣ Cook the Beets:
- Add chopped beets, potato (if using), and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3️⃣ Blend the Soup:
- Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender (or let cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender).
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dill.
4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Notes
📌 Creamier Soup? Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
🥔 More Hearty? Add white beans or lentils for extra protein.
🌿 Extra Flavor? Toss in bay leaves or a pinch of cumin.
🧊 Chilled Version? Let the soup cool and serve cold for a refreshing summer dish.