Chef Reveals Grandmother's Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe with Centuries-Old Secrets

Chef Lana Gnetenko from Jo-el's Kosher Deli has shared her grandmother's authentic Ukrainian Borscht recipe in a recent episode of Dinner DeeAs. The dish, deeply rooted in tradition, dates back centuries and remains a beloved staple in Ukrainian households. Known as a hearty 'soul food', it can feed a family for days.

Recognised by UNESCO as part of Ukraine's intangible cultural heritage, Borscht has stayed true to its vegetarian origins since the 10th century. While regional versions may include potatoes, mushrooms, or beans, the core ingredient—beets—gives the soup its signature maroon hue and sweet-sour balance. Modern adaptations continue to favour plant-based, organic ingredients, especially since 2022, as cooks reject heavier, meat-focused variations to preserve authenticity.

The recipe begins with boiling beef cubes or beef with bones in water until the meat becomes tender. Meanwhile, onions are sautéed until golden brown in a separate skillet. Carrots and beets are then added and cooked briefly to lock in their vibrant colour.

A splash of hot liquid from the beef pot is mixed into the skillet, along with garlic and tomato paste. This blend is stirred before being set aside. In the broth, potatoes are cooked until soft, followed by shredded cabbage, the skillet mixture, beans, and bay leaves. Black beans are avoided—tradition insists on lighter varieties.

The soup is seasoned with salt and pepper, then simmered until it reaches the ideal thickness. According to the 'Standing Spoon' Secret, a grandmother-approved test, the Borscht is ready when a spoon can stand upright in the centre. Once done, it's garnished with fresh parsley and dill, then served hot with a dollop of sour cream.

Gnetenko's method honours the dish's legacy, from the precise sautéing sequence that keeps beets bright to the slow simmering that balances flavours. Each step reflects a tradition passed down through generations, ensuring the soup remains a symbol of Ukrainian resilience and culinary pride.

This Borscht recipe preserves a centuries-old family practice, blending simple techniques with deep cultural meaning. The dish's enduring popularity—whether as a fasting-friendly meal or a comforting staple—shows its role in Ukrainian identity.

With its UNESCO recognition and regional variations, the soup continues to adapt while staying true to its roots. Gnetenko's version keeps the focus on authenticity, proving that even in changing times, some traditions remain unchanged.