All Recipes

Traditional Summa Borscht Recipe

105 min 6 servings Medium
Summa Borscht is a beloved Ukrainian cold soup, known for its refreshing taste and vibrant green colour. This dish is perfect for warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. The unique tanginess of sorrel leaves, combined with creamy potatoes, makes this soup a staple in many Ukrainian households. Our version of Summa Borscht stays true to its roots, emphasizing fresh ingredients and simple preparation. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate traditional Eastern European flavours and are looking to expand their culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Servings
6

For the Summa Borscht

Instructions

1

Prepare the sorrel

Wash and chop the sorrel leaves, removing any tough stems.

Pro tip: Use fresh sorrel for the best flavour.

2

Cook the potatoes

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Test with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.

3

Sauté the onion

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to avoid browning.

4

Combine ingredients

Add the sorrel to the pot with potatoes. Stir in the sautéed onions and cook for another 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Sorrel will wilt quickly, adding a vibrant green colour.

5

Finish with cream

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and season with salt. Add sugar if desired.

Pro tip: Do not boil after adding cream to avoid curdling.

6

Chill the soup

Remove from heat and let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling enhances the flavours.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Always use fresh sorrel for the best flavour.
  • Balance the sourness with a touch of sugar if needed.
  • Chill thoroughly for the most refreshing taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is summa borscht?

Summa borscht is a traditional Ukrainian cold soup made with sorrel leaves and potatoes, known for its refreshing sour taste.

How do you make traditional summa borscht?

Traditional summa borscht is made by cooking sorrel leaves and potatoes in water, adding sautéed onions, and finishing with cream.

Can I make summa borscht ahead of time?

Yes, summa borscht can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

What does summa borscht taste like?

Summa borscht has a tangy and creamy flavour with a fresh, herbaceous note from sorrel leaves.

Is summa borscht served hot or cold?

Summa borscht is traditionally served cold, making it a perfect dish for warm weather.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Summa Borscht chilled as a starter or a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's a fantastic make-ahead dish that allows the flavours to meld together beautifully over time.