Cabbage Borscht Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Guide

Warm, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors, cabbage borscht is a beloved Eastern European soup that has won hearts all over the world. This vegetarian cabbage borscht recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional meat-based version, making it perfect for those seeking a hearty, wholesome meal without compromising on taste.

The rich, earthy flavors of beets combined with the natural sweetness of cabbage and the tangy brightness of vinegar create a symphony of taste in every spoonful. Whether you’re a vegetarian veteran or just exploring plant-based options, this borscht will satisfy your cravings and nourish your soul.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a simple yet authentic recipe that’s easy to prepare and customizable to your liking. Plus, I’ll share tips on how to elevate your borscht, suggest serving ideas, and provide nutritional insights so you can enjoy this classic dish guilt-free.

Ready to dive into a bowl of vibrant, veggie-packed goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian cabbage borscht recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Eastern European staple with a healthy, plant-based twist. It’s nutrient-dense, full of vibrant colors, and bursting with complex flavors from simple, fresh ingredients.

The combination of beets, cabbage, and root vegetables creates a satisfying texture and taste that’s both comforting and refreshing.

What’s more, this recipe is:

• Easy to prepare with simple chopping and simmering.
• Flexible – you can adjust the sourness, spice level, and thickness to your preference.
• Perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it anytime.

It’s a wonderful dish to warm up chilly evenings or to impress friends and family with something both traditional and uniquely nourishing.

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• 3 medium beets, peeled and grated or finely chopped
• 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or plant-based yogurt, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Vegetable peeler
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (for beets)
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle
• Bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and grate the beets, thinly slice the cabbage, dice the carrots and potatoes, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in the large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the beets and carrots: Toss in the grated beets and diced carrots. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.
4. Incorporate tomato paste and spices: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
5. Add broth and potatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the diced potatoes, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
6. Add cabbage: Stir in the sliced cabbage and continue to cook for another 10 minutes until the cabbage softens but still holds some texture.
7. Season and balance flavors: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust vinegar or sugar based on your preferred tanginess and sweetness.
8. Simmer and meld flavors: Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes, allowing all the flavors to marry beautifully.
9. Serve: Ladle the borscht into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped dill and a dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For deeper color and flavor, roast the beets before adding them to the soup.”

• Make it vegan: Use plant-based yogurt or skip the topping altogether.
• Add beans or lentils: To boost protein, add cooked kidney beans or red lentils during the simmering stage.
• Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chili powder for a subtle kick.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or bay leaves add an aromatic touch.
• Serve chilled: Borscht is often enjoyed cold, especially in summer. Refrigerate and serve with a side of rye bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian cabbage borscht pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to make a complete and satisfying meal. Some of my favorite accompaniments include:

• Crusty rye or sourdough bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: For an extra comforting, hearty option.
• Simple green salad: A fresh, crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Pierogi or stuffed cabbage rolls: Traditional Eastern European pairings that complement the borscht beautifully.

For more wholesome and delicious vegetarian recipes, feel free to explore my Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try a refreshing Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes collection to start your meal.

Conclusion

This vibrant vegetarian cabbage borscht is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and nutritious dish. Its colorful presentation, balanced flavors, and heartwarming qualities make it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this borscht will deliver comfort and delight in every bowl.

Don’t forget that borscht tastes even better the next day, so it’s ideal for meal prepping. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Ready for another delicious recipe adventure? You might enjoy exploring my Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for a non-vegetarian twist or indulge your sweet tooth with the Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe as a perfect dessert pairing.

Happy cooking and enjoy your bowl of wholesome, homemade borscht!

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