Russia’s culinary heritage is rich, hearty, and deeply rooted in tradition. One of the most comforting and central aspects of Russian cuisine is soup—a staple in homes and restaurants across the country. Russian soups are often made with fresh ingredients, long-simmered broths, and robust flavors that reflect the diverse regions of the country. Whether you’re exploring the snowy landscapes of Siberia or the bustling streets of Moscow, Russian soups offer a taste of the nation’s history, culture, and culinary creativity.
In this guide, Wander Russia takes you through the top Russian soups that you must try during your journey. From the iconic borsch to the lesser-known but equally delicious solyanka, each soup tells a story of its region and provides a warming, flavorful experience perfect for any time of year.
1. Borscht: The Iconic Russian Soup
Overview
Borscht is probably the most famous Russian soup, loved by locals and admired worldwide. This beetroot-based soup is known for its vibrant red color and rich, earthy flavor. Borscht is often served hot, but it can also be enjoyed cold during the warmer months. The soup’s origins are debated, but it is often associated with Eastern Europe and Slavic traditions.
Key Ingredients:
- Beets: The main ingredient that gives borscht its signature color and earthy taste.
- Cabbage: Adds texture and a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness of the beets.
- Potatoes: A hearty base that thickens the soup.
- Meat: Typically made with beef or pork, but there are vegetarian versions too.
- Dill and sour cream: Garnishes that bring out the freshness and creaminess.
Best Time to Try:
Borscht is a great option year-round, but it’s particularly comforting during the colder months (autumn and winter), when its warm and filling nature can really be appreciated.
Insider Tip:
Don’t forget to top your bowl of borscht with a generous dollop of sour cream and sprinkle fresh dill on top for the authentic Russian experience. Many restaurants also serve it with rye bread or pampushki (garlic buns).
2. Shchi: The Traditional Cabbage Soup
Overview
Shchi is a quintessential Russian soup made with cabbage, and it has been a staple in Russian kitchens for centuries. The soup can be made with both fresh and sauerkraut (fermented cabbage), giving it a tangy or milder flavor depending on the version. It is often considered a humble and everyday soup, but it can be elevated with meats or served as a simple vegetarian dish.
Key Ingredients:
- Cabbage: The primary ingredient, giving the soup its characteristic flavor.
- Potatoes: Add substance and make the soup more filling.
- Meat: Often made with pork, beef, or chicken, though there are vegetarian versions too.
- Herbs: Dill and bay leaves bring aromatic flavors to the broth.
- Sour cream: Optional but often served alongside to add creaminess.
Best Time to Try:
Shchi is particularly popular in the winter months, as it provides a warming, hearty meal perfect for cold weather. The soup’s origins date back to the medieval period, and it remains a comforting meal for many Russians today.
Insider Tip:
For an authentic experience, top your shchi with a spoonful of sour cream and enjoy it with a side of rye bread or blini (Russian pancakes).
3. Solyanka: A Hearty, Sour Soup
Overview
Solyanka is a unique and flavorful Russian soup that combines a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, and spices, creating a bold and tangy taste. It’s often described as a sour soup and is traditionally served as a hearty one-pot meal. It’s a favorite among many for its rich and complex flavors.
Key Ingredients:
- Meat: Solyanka can be made with a variety of meats, including sausage, ham, and beef, but some versions also include fish or mushrooms.
- Pickles: The key ingredient that gives solyanka its sour, tangy taste.
- Olives: Often added to enhance the savory, briny flavor of the soup.
- Lemon: A common garnish that adds a fresh zesty flavor to balance the richness.
- Herbs and spices: Dill, garlic, and bay leaves provide aromatic depth.
Best Time to Try:
Solyanka is a fantastic choice during the winter months when you need a hearty and warming meal. It’s often served during festive occasions and is considered a great comfort food.
Insider Tip:
Serve solyanka with a wedge of lemon and a generous helping of sour cream for the perfect balance of flavors. Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions for those who prefer a meat-free option.
4. Rassolnik: A Sour, Pickled Soup
Overview
Rassolnik is another traditional Russian soup known for its sour, tangy taste. It is made with pickled cucumbers and brine, which create a unique and refreshing flavor profile. Rassolnik is a comforting winter soup often enjoyed with meat, though vegetarian versions are also common.
Key Ingredients:
- Pickled cucumbers: The defining ingredient of rassolnik, giving the soup its distinctive tartness.
- Barley: Often used as the base for the soup, providing a chewy, hearty texture.
- Potatoes: Used to thicken the soup and make it more filling.
- Meat: Typically made with beef or pork, though there are vegetarian versions that use mushrooms instead.
Best Time to Try:
Rassolnik is perfect for cold winter days, providing both warmth and comfort. The sourness of the soup is refreshing, and it’s often enjoyed after a long day of outdoor activities or during cozy meals with friends and family.
Insider Tip:
Try rassolnik with a dollop of sour cream on top, which complements the sourness of the pickles and enhances the creamy texture of the broth.
5. Ukha: Russian Fish Soup
Overview
Ukha is a traditional Russian fish soup that originates from the northern regions of Russia. It is a clear broth made with fresh fish, typically from the Volga River, Lake Baikal, or the Arctic Ocean. Ukha is lighter than the more hearty soups like borscht and shchi, making it a great choice for those who prefer a flavorful yet delicate soup.
Key Ingredients:
- Fish: The primary ingredient, usually pike, perch, or salmon, though other freshwater fish may also be used.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and potatoes are commonly added.
- Herbs: Dill and bay leaves enhance the flavor, while lemon can be used as a garnish.
- Spices: Light seasoning, with pepper and sometimes a bit of coriander, to add flavor without overpowering the fish.
Best Time to Try:
Ukha is especially popular during the summer months, but it can also be a great way to warm up in the winter after a day of fishing or outdoor activities.
Insider Tip:
For the best taste, try Ukha made with freshly caught fish from Lake Baikal or the Volga River. The fish used in Ukha should be very fresh for the most delicate and flavorful broth.
6. Kholodets: A Cold Meat Jelly
Overview
Kholodets is a traditional Russian dish that might seem unusual at first glance—it’s a meat jelly served cold. Often prepared with pork or beef, this dish is gelatinous in texture and flavored with garlic and herbs. While it’s not a soup in the traditional sense, it is often served as part of a Russian winter meal and is popular in holiday feasts.
Key Ingredients:
- Pork or beef: The meat is simmered for several hours to create a rich, flavorful broth.
- Garlic: Adds a distinctive bite to the dish.
- Herbs and spices: Common additions include bay leaves, pepper, and onions.
- Gelatin: The natural gelatin released from the bones during simmering causes the broth to set into a jelly-like consistency.
Best Time to Try:
Kholodets is a popular dish during the winter months and is especially enjoyed during the New Year celebrations and other Russian holidays. It pairs well with mustard or horseradish.
Insider Tip:
Kholodets is often served with a slice of rye bread and a dollop of mustard. It’s a great accompaniment to a winter feast.
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Russia
Russia’s soups are an integral part of its culinary heritage, offering a warm, satisfying experience perfect for the country’s cold winters. From the iconic borscht to the unique kholodets, each soup has its own story to tell, reflecting Russia’s rich traditions, regional flavors, and diverse landscapes.
Whether you’re exploring the Caucasus Mountains, strolling through the streets of Saint Petersburg, or enjoying a meal in a cozy Russian home, be sure to try these top Russian soups for a truly immersive taste of the country’s history and culture. With Wander Russia’s guide, you’ll be prepared to indulge in the best of Russian comfort food during your journey.
