Looking to broaden your culinary horizons? Let’s explore the world of Russian soups!
I’ve compiled a list of 10 traditional recipes, each offering a unique and delightful experience for your taste buds.
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through Russia’s rich culinary heritage!
1. Okroshka Recipe: Russian Summer Soup
Imagine a vibrant mix of veggies, herbs, and ham in a bowl, but surprisingly, it is not immersed in milk! This is Okroshka, a chilled soup perfect for warmer days.
I am speaking of a flavorful fusion of water, sour cream, vinegar, dill, ham, and other goodies. This revitalizing soup is supremely simple to make and is sure to keep you cool when it’s hot.
2. Beef, Barley, and Pickle Soup (Rassolnik)
Beef and barley soup is a staple, but have you ever thought to add pickles? This version boasts all the traditional elements: juicy beef, potatoes, carrots, and barley. Yet, it includes the tangy addition of dill pickles.
I understand that it may sound like a strange addition, but it brings a distinct dill flavor that is guaranteed to tantalize your palate and set this apart from other soups.
3. Shchi- Russian Cabbage Soup (Щи)
For anyone craving a bowl brimming with ingredients, Russian cabbage soup is the perfect choice. Although it needs 20 minutes to prep and 90 minutes to cook, it’s definitely worth it.
If you’re into veggies, this one’s for you because it includes cabbage, carrots, onions, mushrooms, and potatoes! The flavor has a tart edge to it that resembles sauerkraut, which you can heighten with sour cream.
4. Onion Soup with Processed Cheese and Fresh Herbs
Attention all onion soup enthusiasts: prepare to be amazed. This recipe is a true game changer!
With its creamy, buttery, and cheesy foundation, it delivers pure onion-y heaven in every spoonful. Consider enhancing the flavor with basil and the texture with croutons.
Even more cheese on top? It’s not required, but you definitely could. Pair this delightful soup with crusty bread to mop up every last drop!
5. Fish Soup aka Ukha (Russian Classic)
Despite what you may expect, fish soup has a surprisingly delicate flavor. Requiring less than an hour to prepare, this light broth soup is a great option for a quick lunch.
A harmonious mix of salmon, rice, and vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes joins herbs like parsley and dill. The overall flavor is primarily salty and herb-infused, with just a hint of fish.
6. Pasta with Milk (Russian Milk Soup)
Remember the soup that seemed like a bowl of milk? I’m referring to a soup that actually is a bowl of milk. Known as Russian milk soup, this semi-sweet creation is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish.
Milk, water, pasta, sugar, and salt come together in under 30 minutes. While it may be different from anything you have ever eaten, it can be thought of as pasta cereal.
7. Dumpling (Pelmeni) Soup
Think of pelmeni soup as the Russian version of wonton soup, boasting many vegetables alongside thick, doughy dumplings. These dumplings can be stuffed with whatever meat, onion, and spices that you might have on hand.
As one might imagine, this soup is incredibly filling, and the flavor is amazing. Whip this up in approximately 45 minutes if you already have homemade pelmeni ready to go.
8. Russian Potato and Mushroom Leek Soup
If you are seeking a hearty, chunky soup, look no further because this creamy, delicious bowl will fill you right up! It has a delightful mix of potatoes, mushrooms, leeks, carrots, and dill for texture and flavor.
Top with fresh dill, bacon bits, or any type of cheese that sounds good. Served with dark bread, this soup makes for a satisfying and complete meal.
9. Classic Borscht (Beet Soup)
Admire the incredible red color of this classic borscht! Ready in approximately an hour, the recipe is relatively simple.
However, proceed only if you like beets because that is the star of the show here. If you enjoy beets and want something that is both aesthetically pleasing and nutritious, then this may be the soup that you have been seeking.
10. Schavel Borscht (Sorrel Soup)
Here is a thin broth soup that’s not heavy or dense, so it won’t weigh you down! This sorrel soup is remarkably similar to fish soup; however, it uses chicken or pork instead of fish. A generous amount of schavel, a leafy green vegetable, is also added.
Enhance the light and refreshing nature of this soup with a simple salad or side of cheese.