As the evening sky turns a cozy shade of blue, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Borscht wafting through the kitchen. I will never forget the day I decided to ditch takeout and embrace a healthier, homemade option. With a handful of fresh vegetables and a trusty crockpot, I created a vibrant soup that sings of nourishment and warmth. Each spoonful reveals the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the satisfying crunch of cabbage, and a swirl of creamy sour cream that brings everything together.

This Easy Crockpot Borscht not only pleases the taste buds but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece on a chilly evening, reminding us of the rich flavors of home-cooked meals. Perfect for those busy weeknights or weekends spent with loved ones, it’s a budget-friendly dish that’s both hearty and wholesome. If you’re searching for a warm embrace in a bowl, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that everyone in the family will love — even the picky eaters!

Why is Crockpot Borscht a Must-Try?

Warm, Hearty Comfort: This recipe offers a bowl full of love, perfect for comforting chilly evenings. Simple Preparation: With minimal active cooking time, you can set it and forget it, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Rich, Vibrant Flavor: Each bite is packed with the earthy sweetness of beets and a delightful crunch from cabbage. Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh veggies, it’s a budget-friendly meal the whole family will enjoy. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chunky for a rustic feel or purée for a creamy texture. This dish truly adapts to your preference!

Crockpot Borscht Ingredients

For the Soup
• Olive Oil – Adds healthy fat and flavor; you can substitute with any neutral oil.
• Onion – Provides foundational flavor; yellow or white onions work best for sweetness.
• Celery – Gives additional depth and crunch; fennel can replace it for a unique taste.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; parsnips make a lovely substitute if you wish for a different flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the aromatic profile; can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
• Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to your preference, and sea salt can add extra minerals.
• Black Peppercorns – Adds subtle heat and complexity; ground black pepper is a suitable alternative.
• Chopped Tomatoes (28 oz) – Offers acidity and body; fresh tomatoes are a great substitution when in season.
• Beets (5 medium) – The star ingredient that gives not just rich flavor but also that vibrant color; canned beets can be used if you’re in a pinch.
• Potatoes (2 medium) – Provides heartiness and thickness; sweet potatoes can make for a delicious twist.
• Vegetable Stock (4 cups) – It serves as the soup’s base; beef stock heightens the flavor if desired, or homemade broth adds depth.
• Red Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Adds acidity for balance; lemon juice may offer a brighter flavor instead.
• Cabbage (4 cups, finely shredded) – Contributes texture and sweetness; kale or Swiss chard can work as alternatives, too.
• Sour Cream – For a creamy garnish; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
• Fresh Dill – Enhances flavor with a lovely herbal note; fresh parsley is a perfect substitute if dill isn’t on hand.

How to Make Crockpot Borscht

Heat the Oil: In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions, celery, and carrots for about 5-7 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
Add Flavors: Toss in minced garlic, salt, and black peppercorns. Sauté for another minute to allow the garlic to release its aromatic goodness.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed mixture into the slow cooker. It creates a strong flavor base for your soup.
Stir in Vegetables: Gently mix in the chopped tomatoes, diced beets, diced potatoes, and vegetable stock until all ingredients are well combined.
Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, cooking until the vegetables become tender and meld into a harmonious blend.
Add Cabbage: About 20-30 minutes before serving, add the red wine vinegar and shredded cabbage. Stir well to incorporate, continuing to cook on high until the cabbage is tender.
Serve It Up: Decide whether you want a chunky soup, or purée a portion of it for a smoother texture. Mix any reserved vegetables back in for a delightful bite!

Optional: Garnish with fresh dill or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crockpot Borscht?

As you prepare to enjoy a steaming bowl of this vibrant soup, consider these perfect pairings that will enhance your dining experience.

Crusty Bread: A thick slice of rustic bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious broth while adding a hearty touch to your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the earthy flavors of the borscht, creating a cozy combination that warms the soul.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing flavors beautifully.
Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickles or fermented veggies elevates the experience with their crunchy texture and zesty taste, perfect for cleansing the palate.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey warmth and crispy exterior of a grilled cheese brings a nostalgic comfort, perfect for dipping into your bowl of borscht.
Sparkling Water or Wine: A glass of fizzy water or a light white wine refreshes the palate, adding a delightful effervescence that complements the soup’s richness.

Enjoy these accompaniments that together create a heartwarming feast around your vibrant Crockpot Borscht!

Tips for the Best Crockpot Borscht

• Sauté First: Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavors, making your borscht richer and more aromatic.

• Texture Variation: For a delightful mouthfeel, consider puréeing only half the soup and mixing back in the remaining chunky vegetables.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish your soup with fresh dill right before serving to maximize freshness and enhance the flavor profile of your Crockpot Borscht.

• Season Wisely: Be mindful of salt; start with less and gradually adjust to taste, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor without overwhelming the dish.

• Perfect Leftovers: If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in individual portions. It’s ideal for quick and healthy meals on busy days!

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Borscht

Fridge: Store any leftover Crockpot Borscht in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Freezer: Freeze Borscht in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat slowly on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable stock to revive its consistency if it thickens too much.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Borscht at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain freshness.

Crockpot Borscht Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe, adding your personal touch to create a unique and delicious bowl of comfort!

Meat Option: Add shredded beef or cooked sausage for a heartier dish that brings in additional flavors.
Spice It Up: Incorporate cumin or paprika to add warmth and depth. The spices will enliven each spoonful with a pleasant kick.
Herbal Twist: Swap fresh dill for parsley for a different herbal note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, protein-packed garnish without losing creaminess.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes to add a natural sweetness and a beautiful, vibrant color.
Fennel Flavor: Exchange celery for fennel for a subtle anise flavor that elevates the taste while adding a crunchy texture.
Tangy Replacement: Swap out red wine vinegar for lemon juice to brighten the dish with a refreshing acidity that pops.
Chili Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat; it’ll warm you from the inside out!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crockpot Borscht are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and sauté the onions, celery, and carrots up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator. Additionally, the diced beets and potatoes can be prepped and stored together for up to 3 days in a sealed container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your borscht, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the slow cooker, add the remaining vegetables and stock, then cook as directed. This way, you’ll have a hearty, homemade soup waiting for you with minimal effort, just as delicious as if it were made fresh!

Crockpot Borscht Recipe FAQs

What type of beets should I use for Borscht?
Absolutely! Fresh, medium-sized beets are ideal for this recipe to ensure a rich, earthy flavor and vibrant color. Look for ones that are firm and free from any dark spots. If you’re in a pinch, canned beets can be used, but remember they are already cooked, so you’ll want to add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover Crockpot Borscht in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. Enjoy the same fresh flavors when you warm it up again!

Can I freeze leftover Borscht?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Crockpot Borscht, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to serve, gently reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock if needed to restore the consistency.

What should I do if my Borscht is too thick?
No problem at all! If your soup comes out thicker than you’d like, simply add a little vegetable stock or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer on the stove, which will warm it through and enhance the flavor.

Is this Borscht recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Crockpot Borscht is vegetarian-friendly, packed with wholesome ingredients like beets, cabbage, and vegetable stock. For vegan needs, just ensure that the garnish, like sour cream, is replaced with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

Can I make this Borscht spicier?
Very! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the vegetables. Alternatively, you can sprinkle in some smoked paprika for an earthy warmth that complements the beets beautifully!