Ingredients:
– 4-5 medium-sized beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
– Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the chopped beets, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, water, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the pot, and stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the soup for 30-40 minutes until the beets and vegetables are fully cooked and soft.
5. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth. Note: Be careful when blending hot liquids so as not to burn yourself.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a dollop of sour cream (optional) and chopped fresh dill or parsley.
This recipe will make 4-6 servings of beet soup, depending on the size of the bowls. The soup can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can simply skip the pureeing step and serve the soup as-is.
Beet soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Beets are high in antioxidants and are known to help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance. The soup is also low in calories and can be incorporated into a healthy meal plan for weight loss or weight management.
In conclusion, this easy recipe for beet soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors and health benefits of beets. It’s a perfect soup for chilly nights or as an appetizer before a larger meal. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!