Ukrainian Green Borshch (Zelany Borshch) Sorrel Soup

1. 1

   Melt the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the celery and onion, carrot, parsnip if using and saute, stirring, until the onion is softened, about 7 minutes. Add the scallions and saute for another 5 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the stock to the soup pot and bring to a boil. Add the potatoes, then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer, partially covered, until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Bring the soup to a boil. Add the chopped sorrel (sorrel and spinach if using) and cook until wilted, 3 minutes if using fresh and 10 minutes or so if using frozen. Add dill and chopped parsley, salt and pepper to taste.

4. 4

   Serve in soup bowls and garnish with chopped eggs if you wish and a dollop of sour cream or sweet cream and more chopped dill. Serves 4.

5. 5

   Variation: When you add the potatoes don't dice them just cut them in half. When they are tender remove with a slotted spoon, and set them aside. Bring the soup to a boil Add the sorrel and cook till wilted. Remove from heat and add the salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Working in batches, process the soup in a food processor until the sorrel and spinach are finely minced. Transfer the soup to a tureen and stir in 1/2 cup of heavy or whipping cream. Cool, then refrigerate for 2 hours.

7. 7

   Dice the reserved potatoes and add them to the soup right before serving. Serve each soup portion garnished with 1 or 2 slices of egg and sour cream.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.