Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill
A vibrant beet-based soup with smoky depth and fresh dill, perfect for cool evenings. This eastern european-inspired soups (gluten-free, vegetarian) ready in about 55 minutes pairs peeled and diced beets, diced carrots, medium, finely chopped onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.
Ingredients
- 2 cups, peeled and diced beets
- 1 cup, diced carrots
- 1 medium, finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup fresh, chopped dill
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 cup diced carrots and 1 medium chopped onion, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened and golden.
- Step 2: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 2 cups diced beets, 4 cups beef broth, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 25 minutes until beets are tender.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving. Top each bowl with 1 tbsp sour cream.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill take to make?
Total time is about 55 minutes (20 min prep + 35 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep peeled and diced beets from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Smoked Paprika Borscht with Dill gluten-free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten-free, vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
A wonderful recipe that captures the essence of Eastern European cuisine. The smoked paprika adds depth without overwhelming.
- ★★★★★
My grandmother would approve! The balance of flavors is perfect, and the dill is fresh.
- ★★★★☆
Authentic and comforting. Perfect for cold weather. The smoked paprika was just right.
