Green Borscht is a lesser-known gem from Ukrainian cuisine that bursts with vibrant color and herbal brightness. Made with a hearty broth base, fresh spinach, dill, potatoes, and a touch of lemon for tang, it’s a comforting yet refreshingly light soup. Often served with a halved hard-boiled egg and a spoonful of sour cream, this dish is both rustic and elegant, making it a lovely choice for spring or any time you’re craving a veggie-forward meal.
Not only is this soup visually stunning with its leafy greens and golden potatoes, but it also boasts incredible depth of flavor with minimal effort. The inclusion of dill and green onions adds a signature Eastern European flair, while lemon juice provides balance and brightness. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch, a Meatless Monday idea, or something new to try from international cuisine, this Green Borscht is a simple, soul-warming winner.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups vegetable broth
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2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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1 medium carrot, grated
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1/2 cup green onion, sliced
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1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 boiled eggs, halved (for serving)
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Sour cream (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and grated carrot, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are tender, around 15 minutes.
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Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
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Add the green onions, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
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Serve hot with half a boiled egg per bowl and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Comforting Simplicity of Ukrainian Green Borscht with Spinach
Ukrainian cuisine is full of warm, rustic, and nourishing dishes that are rich in tradition and flavor and Green Borscht, also known as Zelenyi Borscht, is no exception. Unlike its more famous cousin, the beet-based red borscht, this vibrant green version is a celebration of seasonal herbs and vegetables. It’s light, aromatic, and brimming with leafy greens, making it perfect for spring and summer or any time you’re craving something wholesome and comforting. Whether you’re of Eastern European descent or simply a soup lover looking to explore new culinary traditions, this spinach-rich Green Borscht is a must-try.
At the heart of this soup lies a beautiful balance between earthy root vegetables and bright leafy greens, with a touch of tangy freshness thanks to lemon juice and dill. The base broth is typically made with vegetables or a light meat stock, depending on preference, and simmered with potatoes and carrots. The addition of spinach lends a delicate, almost creamy consistency to the broth while also boosting the dish’s nutritional value.
In traditional Ukrainian households, Green Borscht is often enjoyed during the spring Lenten season when meat is avoided, making it a staple vegetarian option. That said, it’s also incredibly adaptable, some variations include hard-boiled eggs, ham, or even a touch of sour cream to enrich the flavor and make it more filling. The soup is typically garnished with chopped green onions and dill, enhancing its fresh, herbaceous profile.
A Seasonal and Nutrient-Rich Classic
This borscht is more than just soup; it’s a bridge between simple ingredients and nourishing results. One of the most beautiful things about Green Borscht is that it’s built around what’s growing in your garden or available at your local farmers’ market. The key ingredients, spinach, dill, carrots, potatoes, and green onions are affordable, accessible, and deeply nutritious. Spinach alone is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate. When paired with vitamin C-rich lemon juice, the body absorbs more iron, making this dish not just delicious but smartly balanced.
Dill is another hero of this dish. Its fresh, slightly grassy flavor complements the leafy bitterness of spinach and the starchiness of the potatoes. Together, they create a comforting, soothing broth that feels like it’s been passed down for generations, which, in most Ukrainian kitchens, it has. The soup is typically seasoned only with salt and pepper, allowing the freshness of the vegetables and herbs to shine through without overpowering the natural flavors.
In Ukraine, Green Borscht is often served during family lunches or festive meals, especially around Easter when fresh herbs are abundant. It’s seen as a cleanser, both for the body and the soul, after the heavy winter fare of stews and meats. For anyone looking to eat more greens in a hearty, meaningful way, Green Borscht offers an approachable, soul-soothing option.
A Bowl Full of Tradition and Versatility
While traditionally made with sorrel, which provides a tangy, slightly sour note, many modern versions, including this spinach-based one, offer a milder flavor profile with similar nutritional benefits. If sorrel is available in your region, feel free to substitute it in whole or in part for the spinach. Other greens like kale, beet greens, or Swiss chard can also work beautifully in this dish.
What truly sets this soup apart is the simple, thoughtful way it’s served. A halved hard-boiled egg placed gently in each bowl adds protein and visual appeal, while a small spoonful of sour cream lends creaminess that contrasts nicely with the acidity of the lemon juice. It’s these humble touches that elevate Green Borscht from a mere soup to a wholesome, memorable experience.
Another noteworthy aspect is the soup’s low calorie count, which makes it a suitable choice for those watching their intake while still wanting to enjoy a satisfying meal. At around 180 calories per serving, it’s a dish you can enjoy guilt-free. Add some crusty rye bread or a light salad on the side, and you’ve got a complete, balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Cultural Relevance and Modern Appeal
In Ukrainian folklore and cuisine, borscht isn’t just food, it’s identity. Green Borscht, though less globally known than its red counterpart, carries just as much cultural weight and meaning. It’s a symbol of the renewal that comes with spring, a reminder of the importance of eating seasonally, and a testament to the ingenuity of simple, peasant-style cooking. It’s also a great example of how a few basic ingredients, when treated with care and intention, can create something truly heartwarming.
In today’s culinary landscape, where many are rediscovering plant-forward eating and the benefits of traditional, homemade meals, this soup fits right in. It checks all the boxes—easy to make, inexpensive, deeply nourishing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian, there’s a version of Green Borscht that will work for you. And because it keeps well in the fridge for several days, it’s ideal for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of Green Borscht lies in its flexibility. Want to add protein? Toss in diced chicken, turkey, or ham. Looking for more texture? Add barley or cooked lentils. Prefer a creamy version? Blend part of the soup for a thicker texture or stir in a plant-based cream substitute. The options are endless, and the results are always deeply satisfying.
You can also change up the herbs, parsley or tarragon can add a new flavor twist. And don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, or a dollop of herbed yogurt can all take this classic dish in new directions.
Conclusion
Green Borscht is more than just a soup, it’s a story of resilience, simplicity, and seasonal cooking. With its roots in Eastern European tradition and its modern-day adaptability, it’s a recipe worth preserving and passing down. Whether you’re looking for a light, nourishing meal or a way to connect with culinary history, this spinach-forward dish delivers on every front.
From its humble ingredients to its beautifully balanced flavors, this Ukrainian Green Borscht offers warmth, wellness, and heritage in every spoonful. It’s perfect for anyone looking to explore comforting, plant-based meals or seeking a fresh twist on traditional soups. Give it a try and let this heartwarming dish bring a little bit of Ukrainian comfort into your home.