Borscht (Borsch)
(Borscht, Borschch, Borsht, Barszcz, Борщ)
The iconic borsch is probably the most famous Ukrainian dish, also considered the country's national dish. It is a comforting soup made with beetroot, meat or bone stock, and sautéed vegetables. There are many variations - the broth can be made with beef, pork, chicken, or as a vegetarian version.
The soup often includes fermented beetroot juice (kvas), and it is common to add meat, while typical vegetables include root vegetables and cabbage. The essential ingredient in every borsch is beetroot. It gives the dish its distinctive red color and a characteristic earthy flavor.
The exact origin of this classic is difficult to trace – although it is predominately associated with Ukraine, as the country boasts the largest number of borsch varieties. Regardless of its origins, it is one of the favorite dishes across Central and Eastern Europe. Read more
For example, in Poland, there are several varieties, but the most popular version is barczsz with dumplings, which is served as a traditional Christmas Eve dish. Due to migration, the tradition of preparing borsch has long ago surpassed European borders, and is commonly found in Ukrainian restaurants across the world.
In Ukraine, the dish is often served with savory yeasted buns called pampushki.
