Borscht

Borscht is one of the symbols of Ukraine. And although borscht is usually associated with beets, there are dozen of variations, including green borscht and borschts served cold. The Ukrainian Orthodox church as well as many of the protestant and evanglelical church here in Ukraine observe a 40 day fast before Christmas (celebrated January 7). The fast includes obsatining from meat, fats, and sweets. The following is a borscht apporiate for the Advental fast, you'll find its low cal. filled with vitamins and delicious. Give it a try! (Don't let the beets scare you)
1 boullion cube (chicken or beef)
4 medium potatoes- peeled and cubed
1 medium beet peeled and grated
1 large carrot peeled and grated
1 white onion diced
3 cups shredded cabbage
4 tablespoons sunflower or vegetable oil
1 small can of tomato paste
1/2 cup of water
salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried dill
2 cloves of garlic diced
Fill a large soup pot with 3/4 full with water, add boullion cube and bring to a boil, once water is boiling add potoatoes. In a large saucepan heat sunflower oil, add beets, carrots, onion, cabbage, tomato paste and water. Stir well, salt and cover. Allow to simmer for 15-20 mins, stirring occsasionaly. Add sauteed vegetables, salt, pepper, dill and garlic to the soup pot, turn on low heat, cover and all to simmer for 30-40 mins.
Borsht is traditionally served with chopped dill, parsley and a spoonful of sourcream on top. Serve with garlic bread to really bring out the flavor. Enjoy!