Red Beet Borscht

Red Beet Borscht Is Colorful And Satisfying

January 7 is officially Christmas Day in Russia.  In 1917 when the Bolsheviks took over Russia, Christmas was eliminated.  It was replaced by a New Year's celebration.  These festivities include a visit from Father Frost.  Many Russians familiar with Western observances have adopted the date of December 25 as their observance. Borscht is a wonderful hearty vegetarian soup with a Russian origin.  This recipe makes 10 to 12 cups.

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Ingredients:

4 red beets cut in 1/2 inch cubes

1 large carrot, cut in 1/2 inch slices

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1 Tablespoon minced fresh ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon allspice

5 cups water

2 cups red cabbage shredded

2 red apples, cored and finely diced

1/2 cup red wine vinegar

1/2 cup tomato paste

1 1/2 cup sour cream or plain non fat yogurt

1 Tablespoon fresh dill or parsley

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Directions:

Combine beets, carrots, onion, ginger, salt, and cayenne pepper, and allspice, simmer 40 minutes.  Add cabbage and apples and simmer another 25 minutes.  Add vinegar and tomato paste.  Stir to blend mixture.  Cook another 5 minutes.  Garnish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of dill or chopped parsley.