Name: Borscht
Cook time: 45 minutes
Yield: Makes 2 quarts
Ingredients: 2 quarts beef, chicken, or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 onions, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried marjoram; 2 celery stalks, trimmed, thinly sliced; 2 parsnips, peeled, thinly sliced; 1 carrot, peeled, thinly sliced; 1 leek, white and light green parts, thinly sliced; 1/2 head savoy cabbage, shredded; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; 2 beets, peeled, grated; 1/4 cup dill, minced; 2-3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, or as needed; 1/2 cup sour cream

Image may contain Bowl Dish Food Meal Soup Bowl and Soup

BorschtCIA/Keith Ferris

Borscht is one of those soups that has dozens of variations. This version of the classic Russian beet soup uses lots of vegetables and a touch of bacon for extra flavor. You can leave the bacon out and use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian soup. Grating the beets into the soup releases maximum beet flavor. Though this recipe calls for the borscht to be served hot, it is also delicious when served cold.

Recipe notes

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Meatball Tagine

Warming harissa and cinnamon, briny olives, and sweet dried fruit make up the flavorful base for this weeknight-friendly take on tagine.