Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup)

When people hear the word borscht, they often think of the famous red beet soup. But in Ukrainian cuisine, there is another beloved version called Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup). This comforting soup is lighter, fresh, and full of bright herbal flavor from leafy greens.

Traditionally made with sorrel in springtime, many modern versions use spinach, which is easier to find and just as delicious. Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) has a flavorful broth, tender potatoes, soft greens, and is often served with boiled eggs and a dollop of sour cream.

After cooking many Eastern European soups, this one stands out for its balance of freshness and comfort. It’s simple, nourishing, and perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make authentic Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup), including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, variations, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light yet comforting soup full of fresh flavor

• Nutritious ingredients like spinach and potatoes

• Traditional Ukrainian dish with simple preparation

• Perfect for spring or year-round meals

• Customizable with different greens

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

This soup is wholesome, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

Ingredients & Prep

Main Ingredients Prep

The base of Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) starts with a simple broth and vegetables.

You will need:

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 carrot, grated

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil

Prep tip

Dice the potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook quickly and evenly in the soup.

Seasonings, Sauces, or Flavor Base

These ingredients give the soup its signature flavor.

• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

The lemon juice adds a slight tang that balances the greens.

Pantry Staples

These ingredients finish the soup.

• 2 boiled eggs, sliced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Sour cream for serving

These toppings are traditional in Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup).

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Pre-Cooking Prep

Before starting the soup, prepare the vegetables.

1. Peel and dice the potatoes.

2. Chop the onion and grate the carrot.

3. Wash and chop the spinach.

4. Boil the eggs and slice them.

This preparation makes cooking the soup easier and faster.

Cooking Method

1. Cook the vegetables

In a large pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

2. Add carrots

Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Add the broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Add potatoes

Add the diced potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes until tender.

5. Add spinach and garlic

Stir in the chopped spinach and minced garlic.

Cook for about 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Doneness or Texture Check

The Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is ready when the potatoes are tender and the greens are soft.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Resting or Final Touches

Remove the soup from heat and stir in fresh dill.

To serve:

• Ladle soup into bowls

• Add slices of boiled egg

• Top with a spoonful of sour cream

These final touches give the soup its classic Ukrainian presentation.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the spinach
Spinach cooks quickly and should only be simmered briefly.

Cutting potatoes too large
Smaller cubes cook faster and evenly.

Skipping the lemon juice
A little acidity helps brighten the flavor of the soup.

Recommended Tools

Helpful kitchen tools include:

• Large soup pot

• Cutting board

• Chef’s knife

• Ladle

• Vegetable peeler

These tools make preparing Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) simple and efficient.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerator storage
Store the soup in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezer storage
Freeze for up to 2 months (without eggs or sour cream).

Reheating
Warm gently on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Add fresh dill and toppings when serving.

Flavor Variations

You can customize Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) in several ways.

Spicy Version

Add a small pinch of:

• red pepper flakes

• black pepper

This adds a subtle heat to the soup.

Healthy / Special Diet Option

This soup can easily fit different diets.

Vegetarian version
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Low-carb option
Reduce potatoes and add more greens.

Dairy-free option
Serve without sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.

Global Flavor Twist

Try creative variations inspired by other cuisines.

Mediterranean style
Add lemon zest and fresh parsley.

Polish-inspired
Use sorrel instead of spinach.

Middle Eastern twist
Add cumin and coriander for warm spices.

Serving Suggestions

Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is traditionally served with simple sides.

Serve it with:

• Crusty bread

• Rye bread

• Garlic bread

• Fresh cucumber salad

You can also enjoy it as a light lunch or a starter for a larger meal.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Store it in the refrigerator and add fresh toppings when serving.

How do I fix common mistakes?

Soup too bland
Add more salt, dill, or lemon juice.

Soup too thick
Add more broth or water.

Greens too soft
Add the spinach later and cook briefly.

Conclusion

This traditional Green Borscht (Ukrainian Spinach Soup) is fresh, nourishing, and full of comforting flavor. With tender potatoes, leafy greens, and a bright herbal broth, it’s a simple dish that captures the heart of Ukrainian home cooking.

It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to many diets, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love trying classic red borscht, hearty vegetable soup, or Ukrainian cabbage soup for more comforting homemade dishes.