This quick borscht delivers all the classic comfort of the Eastern European favorite — but in a fraction of the usual time. Grated beets are the secret here: they cook fast, color the broth a beautiful ruby red and infuse the soup with an earthy sweetness. A mix of potatoes, cabbage, leeks and carrot keep the soup light yet hearty, and a splash of lemon brightens everything at the end. With a dollop of sour cream and a slice of pumpernickel, it’s a simple and deeply satisfying meal you can pull off any night of the week.
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Directions
Heat the olive oil in a medium Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the potatoes, carrots, leeks and cabbage and season with 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted, 4 to 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut the tops off the beets and set aside. Peel the beets, then grate on the large holes of a box grater. Remove the stems from the greens, then coarsely chop the greens. Once the cabbage has wilted, add the grated beets and chopped greens to the pot and stir to combine. Make a space in the center of the pot and add the tomato paste and garlic; cook until sizzling, about 30 seconds. Add 7 cups water and bring to a rapid simmer. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened slightly, 18 to 20 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sour cream and/or dill. Serve with bread.
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Photograph by Andrew Purcell
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