When the sun blazes and you’re craving something cool, this refreshing Holodnik recipe is your answer. This chilled beet soup is perfect for a light, vibrant meal that captures the essence of summer. With its bright colors and crisp flavors, Holodnik is not just a feast for the taste buds but a delight for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or simply enjoying a quiet lunch, this soup brings a touch of elegance to any table.
Steps
- Cook the beets by boiling them for about 35 minutes, adding a tablespoon of sugar for sweetness. Once done, drain and let them cool; older beets may require up to an hour.
- Boil 2 quarts of water, then allow it to cool. Combine this cooled water with 1 quart of buttermilk in a large pot.
- Grate the cooled beets and mix them into the pot with the water and buttermilk.
- Season the mixture with salt and sugar, starting with 1 tablespoon of salt and adjusting to taste.
- Add sliced green onions, chopped dill, and diced cucumbers to the pot, mixing well with the other ingredients.
- Chill the soup in the refrigerator until it is completely cold before serving.
- Serve the soup with half a boiled egg or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 large red beets or 5 small beets
- 2 quarts of water
- 1 quart of buttermilk
- 1 medium onion or 3 green onions
- 4 cucumbers
- Sea salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 bunch of dill
- 4-6 boiled eggs (optional)
FAQ
- What is Holodnik?
- Holodnik is a cold soup from Eastern Europe, known for its vibrant violet color, which comes from beets. It’s similar to cold borscht but has a tangier flavor.
- What ingredients do I need for Holodnik?
- You will need 3 large or 5 small red beets, 2 quarts of water, 1 quart of buttermilk, 1 medium onion or 3 green onions, 4 cucumbers, sea salt, a teaspoon of sugar, a bunch of dill, and optionally, 4-6 boiled eggs.
- How do I prepare Holodnik?
- First, boil and cool the beets. Then, boil 2 quarts of water and let it cool before mixing it with buttermilk in a pot. Shred the beets and add them to the pot, followed by salt, sugar, sliced green onions, dill, and diced cucumbers. Chill the soup in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I customize the sweetness or saltiness of Holodnik?
- Yes, you can adjust the taste by starting with 1 tablespoon of salt and adding more to suit your preference. You might prefer it sweeter or saltier.
- How should Holodnik be served?
- Holodnik is best enjoyed chilled, with half of a boiled egg. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Tips
- When boiling the beets, add a tablespoon of sugar to the water to enhance their natural sweetness. Keep in mind that fresher beets will cook faster, while older ones may need up to an hour.
- Ensure the boiled water is completely cooled before mixing it with the buttermilk. This will help maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning by starting with one tablespoon of salt. Depending on your preference, you can add more salt or sugar to achieve the desired flavor balance.
- For an added touch, serve the soup with half a boiled egg or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness and flavor.
Equipment
- Large Cooking Pot
- Vidalia Chop Wizard (or a similar vegetable chopper)
