Shchi

About This Recipe

Shchi is the most fundamental soup in Russian cuisine, a hearty cabbage soup that has been the daily sustenance of Russian families for centuries. Built on a beef broth base with shredded cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and onions, it is simple, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. The soup develops even better flavor the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal during long Russian winters.

Ingredients

Serves 6

• 500 gbeef chuck(cubed)
• 400 gwhite cabbage(shredded)
• 3 mediumpotatoes(cubed)
• 2 mediumcarrots(diced)
• 1 largeonion(diced)
• 2 tbsptomato paste
• 2 Lwater
• 2 bay leavesbay leaves
• 3 tbspfresh dill(chopped)
• 150 gsour cream(for serving)

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the broth

   Place beef in a pot with cold water. Bring to a boil, skim foam, then simmer for 45 minutes.

2. 2

   Add vegetables

   Add cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onion, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Continue simmering for 30-40 minutes until everything is very tender.

3. 3

   Season and serve

   Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill.

Variations

• •

  Use sauerkraut for a tangier 'kislie shchi' version.

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freezes well for 3 months.