Beet Green Soup may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of hearty, comforting soups, but it’s a hidden gem! It’s a perfect example of how we can make the most out of every part of a vegetable. While beets themselves are incredibly popular for their earthy sweetness, the leafy greens that grow atop them are often overlooked. These beet greens are not only edible but highly nutritious, making them the ideal base for a savory, vibrant soup that’s both healthy and delicious.
Beet green soup is one of those recipes that’s as satisfying as it is surprising. It’s great for people who are trying to find ways to cut down on waste, eat more whole foods, or even just explore new flavor combinations. The deep green, slightly bitter flavor of the beet greens, when paired with the rich, umami-packed broth, creates a balanced and soul-warming dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning to experiment with new ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for anyone looking to eat well without much fuss.
Beet Green Soup Recipe
So, let’s dive right in and explore how to make this simple yet vibrant beet green soup! It’s light yet filling, with plenty of depth, and it’ll keep you coming back for second servings.
Ingredients Needed
- Beet greens (from 2-3 medium beets)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Yellow onion (1, diced)
- Garlic cloves (2, minced)
- Carrots (2, peeled and diced)
- Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced)
- Vegetable broth (4 cups, or chicken broth if preferred)
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (optional, like thyme or dill for garnish)
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for added creaminess)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Beet Greens
- Wash the beet greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Strip the leaves from the stems, and chop them roughly into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and carrots, and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The carrots should start to soften during this time as well.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning.
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Add The Potatoes And Broth
- Toss in the diced potatoes and give everything a good stir. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Incorporate The Beet Greens
- Add the chopped beet greens to the pot, stir well, and continue simmering for another 5-7 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
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Season And Finish
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like, you can blend the soup for a smoother texture using an immersion blender, or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
- If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk at this stage for extra richness.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or dill if desired. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
Now let’s break down the key ingredients in this beet green soup and explore their benefits:
- Beet Greens: Often overlooked, beet greens are packed with nutrients. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and magnesium. These greens are not only good for your bones and immune system, but they also offer powerful antioxidant properties that can help fight inflammation and promote heart health.
- Carrots: Carrots bring a natural sweetness to the soup, balancing the earthy bitterness of the beet greens. They’re a great source of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A-vital for vision, skin health, and immune function.
- Potatoes: Potatoes help to give the soup a hearty, filling texture. They also absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth, making every spoonful satisfying. They’re rich in potassium and fiber, making this dish not only comforting but also nutritious.
- Garlic and Onion: These two ingredients add a savory depth of flavor. Garlic has been shown to boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure, while onions are a great source of antioxidants, which may help combat chronic disease.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the flavor of the soup, cutting through the richness and giving it a lovely balance. It also enhances the absorption of iron from the beet greens, making this soup even more beneficial.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh, Tender Beet Greens: While beet greens are available year-round, they’re at their best in the cooler months. Fresh greens will have a softer, milder flavor and a more vibrant green color. Wilted or older greens can be more bitter and fibrous, so it’s worth seeking out the freshest bunch possible.
- Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a smooth, velvety texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup after the vegetables are cooked. You can also blend it in batches in a regular blender, but make sure to allow it to cool slightly before doing so.
- Play with Seasoning: Depending on your flavor preferences, you can add other herbs and spices. A pinch of cumin, smoked paprika, or even a little grated Parmesan can take the soup to the next level.
- Make It Ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day! The flavors have more time to meld and develop, so feel free to make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month.
Recipe Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add some cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup. They’ll absorb the flavor of the broth and make the soup even more filling.
- Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a small diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing step to give the soup a kick.
- Green Leafy Veggie Swap: If you don’t have beet greens, you can swap them with other dark leafy greens like Swiss chard, kale, or spinach. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still pair beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Options: The soup is naturally vegetarian, and it can easily be made vegan by using coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Opt for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.
Final Words
Beet green soup is a fantastic way to embrace the full potential of your vegetables while eating something that’s comforting, nutritious, and just plain delicious. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, offering you both health and taste in a single bowl. The earthy flavor of the beet greens, combined with the savory broth, creates a satisfying meal that’ll leave you feeling nourished.