Worldwide Food Tour – Ukraine
A Dish That Defines Ukrainian Heritage
Borscht (борщ) is Ukraine’s national dish, a rich, deeply flavorful beet soup that has been enjoyed for centuries. Known for its brilliant red color, complex sweet-sour taste, and nourishing ingredients, borscht is more than just food—it is a symbol of Ukrainian identity, hospitality, and resilience.
Though variations of borscht exist across Eastern Europe and Russia, Ukraine is widely recognized as its true birthplace. Each Ukrainian household has its own unique version, passed down through generations, making borscht both deeply personal and culturally significant.
The History: A Dish with Centuries of Tradition
Borscht has been a staple of Ukrainian cuisine since at least the 14th century, originating in Kyivska Rus’ (modern-day Ukraine and surrounding regions). Originally, borscht was made with hogweed (борщівник, borshchivnyk), a wild plant that gave the soup its name. Over time, beets replaced hogweed, creating the signature red color and slightly sweet flavor that defines modern borscht.
During the Soviet era, borscht was promoted as a pan-Slavic dish, but Ukrainians have always fiercely defended it as their national culinary treasure. In 2022, UNESCO officially recognized Ukrainian borscht as part of Ukraine’s cultural heritage, affirming its deep historical roots and cultural significance.
What is Borscht?
Borscht is a beet-based soup, often made with a rich meat broth, root vegetables, cabbage, and sour flavors like vinegar or fermented beet kvass.
Essential Ingredients of Ukrainian Borscht:
- Beets (Red Beetroots): The star ingredient, giving borscht its deep ruby-red color and slightly sweet, earthy taste.
- Cabbage: Adds heartiness and texture.
- Potatoes & Carrots: Provide additional body and natural sweetness.
- Onions & Garlic: Essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
- Tomatoes or Tomato Paste: Adds richness and acidity.
- Meat (Optional): Beef, pork, or chicken for a hearty version, though vegetarian borscht is also common.
- Sour Component: Vinegar, lemon juice, or fermented beet kvass for the signature tangy-sweet balance.
- Dill & Bay Leaves: Traditional herbs for fragrance.
- Smetana (Sour Cream): A must-have topping for creamy contrast.
Some versions also include beans, mushrooms, or smoked meat, depending on regional traditions and personal preference.
Tasting Notes: Sweet, Savory, and Slightly Tangy
Borscht is richly complex, deeply satisfying, and uniquely balanced:
- The beets provide a natural sweetness, creating a distinct earthy undertone.
- The cabbage and root vegetables absorb the flavorful broth, making every bite hearty.
- The sour component adds a mild tang, preventing the soup from being overly sweet.
- Fresh dill gives a bright, herbal contrast, enhancing the dish’s depth.
- A dollop of sour cream melts into the soup, creating a luxurious creaminess.
The flavors intensify overnight, making borscht even better the next day.
How Borscht is Served
Borscht is enjoyed year-round, served either hot in winter or chilled in summer (Kholodnyk borscht).
Traditional Serving Styles:
- With a Dollop of Sour Cream (Smetana): The most classic way to enjoy borscht.
- With Pampushky (Garlic Bread Rolls): Soft, fluffy rolls brushed with garlic oil, perfect for dipping.
- With Fresh Dill & Black Pepper: Enhancing the flavors with herbal notes.
- With a Side of Salo (Cured Pork Fat) & Rye Bread: A traditional Ukrainian pairing.
- Vegetarian Borscht (Pісний Борщ): A meatless version, often eaten during Orthodox fasting periods.
Borscht is best enjoyed slowly, savoring its deep, layered flavors, often accompanied by a warm conversation among family or friends.
Beyond Ukraine: Borscht’s Global Influence
Though borscht is deeply Ukrainian, variations exist in neighboring countries:
- Poland: Barszcz, a thinner beet soup often served with dumplings.
- Russia & Belarus: Sometimes made with fermented beets for a stronger sour flavor.
- Lithuania: Cold beet soup (Šaltibarščiai) with kefir and eggs.
Despite its regional variations, Ukrainian borscht remains the gold standard, with its perfect balance of richness, acidity, and sweetness.
Why Borscht is Ukraine’s Most Beloved Dish
✔ Deep, Complex Flavor – A perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and savory.
✔ Nutritious & Hearty – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.
✔ A Cultural Symbol – Represents Ukrainian resilience and national pride.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Can be made meaty, vegetarian, hot, or cold.
✔ Perfect for Sharing – A warm, communal dish enjoyed by generations.
Borscht is not just a soup—it’s a story, a tradition, and a taste of Ukraine’s soul. 🇺🇦