Свекольник
Супы • Россия
О продукте Свекольник
Chilled magenta beet soup on kefir with cucumber, egg and dill, a summer cousin of borscht.
How to Make Свекольник (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Свекольник is a classic cold beet soup from Russia, particularly beloved in Moscow and central regions. This vibrant vegetarian soup is a staple of Russian summer cuisine, offering a refreshing respite during warm months. Its beautiful ruby color comes from fresh beets, a root vegetable cherished in Russian kitchens for centuries. Traditionally, Свекольник is served chilled, making it not only flavorful but also highly hydrating and low in calories. The taste is light, slightly sweet, and tangy, thanks to the combination of beets, fresh vegetables, and a touch of lemon or kvass. Russians enjoy this soup for its cooling properties and ease of digestion, making it popular during hot weather or as a light meal option. Culturally, Свекольник is often shared at family gatherings, picnics, and festive tables, symbolizing hospitality and the bounty of Russian gardens. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and unmistakable color have made it a beloved dish across Russia. For health-conscious eaters, this authentic recipe offers all the traditional flavors in a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version—perfect for international food lovers looking to experience genuine Russian cuisine.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl (approx. 300 ml))
- 2 medium (about 200g) Fresh beets (Свёкла)
- 1 small (about 80g) Cucumber (Огурец)
- 4-5 pieces Radish (Редис)
- 2 stalks Green onion (Зелёный лук)
- 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh dill (Укроп)
- 1 large Boiled egg (Яйцо) - optional
- 1 cup (200 ml) Low-fat kefir or yogurt (Кефир или йогурт)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Лимонный сок)
- to taste Salt (Соль)
- to taste Black pepper (Чёрный перец)
- 1 cup (200 ml) Cold water (Холодная вода)
Instructions
- 1
Wash beets thoroughly. Place them in a saucepan with enough water to cover and boil until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Let cool, then peel and grate.
20 minutes
Smaller beets cook faster and have sweeter flavor.
- 2
While beets are cooking, finely dice cucumber and radishes. Chop green onions and fresh dill.
5 minutes
Use chilled vegetables for extra refreshing taste.
- 3
If using, hard-boil the egg (8-10 minutes), cool, peel, and chop. Set aside for garnish.
10 minutes
For vegan version, simply omit the egg.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine grated beets, cucumber, radish, green onions, and dill.
2 minutes
Mix gently to keep vegetables crisp.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Russian beet soup is an ideal choice for calorie-conscious eaters, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a refreshing, naturally low-fat meal. Its high vegetable content means plenty of fiber and micronutrients with minimal calories. Using low-fat kefir or yogurt cuts saturated fat while maintaining creaminess and flavor. The absence of heavy oils or meats keeps it light and suitable for weight management, digestive wellness, and overall vitality.
Свекольник is exceptionally low in calories (about 45 kcal per serving) and fat while offering a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and folate from beets. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like cucumber and radish adds antioxidants and hydration. Kefir or yogurt provides protein, calcium, and beneficial probiotics for gut health. This soup is also rich in potassium, magnesium, and phytonutrients that support heart health and digestion, making it a nutrient-dense addition to any diet.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For an extra tangy flavor, add a splash of traditional Russian kvass instead of water.
- 💡Tip 2: Always use chilled ingredients for maximum refreshment.
- 💡Tip 3: Prepare in advance to allow flavors to meld—it's even tastier the next day.
Storage & Serving
Keep Свекольник refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Stir before serving. Best enjoyed cold; do not freeze as texture may change.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 45.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |
