Gluten-Free Traditional Ukrainian Borsch

Dive into the heart of Ukrainian cuisine with this comforting and vibrant Gluten-Free Traditional Ukrainian Borsch. This hearty beet-based soup is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, brimming with earthy beets, tender potatoes, crisp cabbage, and a medley of aromatic vegetables. Made gluten-free and optionally enriched with tender braised meat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors. Tomato paste and a hint of vinegar deepen the broth's complexity, while fresh dill adds a final pop of herby brightness. Perfect for cozy evenings, this borsch is best served with a dollop of gluten-free sour cream and a side of gluten-free bread. Whether you’re honoring tradition or exploring new flavors, this dish delivers authentic taste and gluten-free ease in every spoonful.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 medium-sized, peeled and shredded beets
• 2 medium-sized, peeled and cubed potatoes
• 2 medium-sized, peeled and shredded carrots
• 1 small head, shredded white cabbage
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons, finely chopped fresh dill
• 2 pieces bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 500 grams beef or pork (bone-in, optional for richer flavor)
• 2 liters water or gluten-free beef broth
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon, to taste salt
• 0.5 teaspoon, to taste black pepper
• 0 optional sour cream (gluten-free, for serving)
• 0 optional gluten-free bread (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Step 1: If using meat, place it in a large pot along with 2 liters of water or gluten-free beef broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the bay leaves, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes to create a flavorful base.

Step 2

Step 2: While the meat is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Peel and shred the beets and carrots, cube the potatoes, shred the cabbage, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set each ingredient aside in separate bowls.

Step 3

Step 3: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 4

Step 4: Stir in the shredded beets and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, then add 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and 2 teaspoons of vinegar (or lemon juice). Mix well and allow to cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5

Step 5: After the meat has simmered for 30 minutes, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Add the potatoes and cabbage to the pot, bringing it back to a simmer.

Step 6

Step 6: Shred or chop the cooked meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.

Step 7

Step 7: Add the beet and carrot mixture to the pot, stirring well. Season with black pepper and additional salt to taste. Simmer the borsch for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.

Step 8

Step 8: Stir in the fresh dill just before serving for a burst of flavor. Ladle the borsch into bowls and serve hot.

Step 9

Step 9: Offer optional gluten-free sour cream and gluten-free bread on the side for a more traditional touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3996.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2380.5

Total Fat 135.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 47.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.1g
Cholesterol 365mg	0%
Sodium 3603.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 189.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 35.6g	0%
Total Sugars 56.3g
Protein 118.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 493.6mg	0%
Iron 24.4mg	0%
Potassium 6234.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.7%

Protein: 19.3%

Carbs: 30.9%