All the world’s eyes are on Sochi, Russia, for the next two weeks, and apparently, most of Sochi is dipping its spoon into a bowl of borscht. Organizers in Sochi expect to serve about 70,000 gallons of this classic Russian soup. Whether or not you’re a fan of the Olympics, you might want to take a cue from some Russian chefs (and eaters!) and give borscht a try—and here’s why: beets!
From what we’ve read, there are about as many ways to make borscht as there are opinions on it, but one thing they all have in common is beets. The core of the soup consists of beets, potatoes, tomatoes, and often, pork or beef, but it’s the beets we’re going to focus on. Beets aren’t the most loved of root vegetables, but that doesn’t diminish their innate goodness. Like them or not, you can’t deny the health benefits of these underground gems.
- Beets are high in carbs, so they’re a great source of instant energy. We actually found an article listing beetroot juice as a favorite of some Olympic athletes to fuel their performance. A single serving increased the length of time professional divers could hold their breath by 11%, and cyclists who drank a 500 ml serving were able to ride 20% longer.
- Beets contain magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, niacin and vitamins A and C. They’re also considered a fiber food!
- Beets are a great source of folic acid.
- Studies show that beets help guard against certain cancers, especially colon cancer.
- Studies also show that beets help prevent heart disease.
- You can buy beets year-round!
- Beets are inexpensive.
- Beets are versatile—juice them, boil them, sauté them, steam them or eat them raw. The possibilities are kind of endless.
- You can even eat the leaves of raw beets.
- Beets cleanse the body. They are a powerful tonic for the liver and help to purify the blood.
- Beets contain betaine and tryptophan. Betaine is used in some treatments for depression, and tryptophan is relaxing (think Thanksgiving turkey). Ease your mind and eat some beets!
- According to some, beets are nature’s Viagra. Ancient Romans used beets as aphrodisiacs. In fact, beets contain high amounts of boron, which is related to the production of sex hormones.
- Beets can help you manage your weight and appetite. One cup of beets contains lots of fiber and only about 60 calories, so you’ll end up feeling full on fewer calories.
- Beets have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Beets help the body to balance oxygen use and increase stamina, thus helping the body respond better to exercise.
Now that you know how good beets are for you, you can go about the business of making a better bowl of borscht! Ukrainians claim borscht as their national dish. They prefer their borscht hot with pork and a dollop of sour cream, while Americans may recognize a Jewish version that is cold and sweet. Depending on who you talk to, both versions are correct—as are countless other versions.
We’re not sure which kinds are being served in Sochi during the Olympics but we found a deluxe little version with beef, mushrooms, apples and beans that you can find here.
If you give this recipe a try, let us know what you think on our Facebook page! We may not be serving borscht, but you can get a nice, hot bowl of soup at any Brown Bag location, Monday through Friday, to keep you warm this winter. See you soon!
