Pink Soup, Anyone?

Up to now we've talked about heavy, calorie-rich (and yummy!) foods doused with bacon and sour cream. But Lithuanians have more to offer to those into healthy eating. Introducing Šaltibarščiai - literally translated as "cold soup", it is a dish full of veggies and loved for its tangy, refreshing taste.
Upon seeing this soup, the first thing many ask is "Is that a natural color?" Let me assure you - it is not Pepto-Bismol or bubble gum. The color comes from mixing the two main ingredients - buttermilk and beets. Yup, that's somewhat an acquired taste (which is definitely worth acquiring).

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Other ingredients in this cold soup are cucumbers, dill, green onions and hard-boiled eggs - it is basically a liquid salad! The soup is usually served with hot boiled or fried potatoes. It is a favorite on hot summer days, and takes just minutes to make.

You will need:

• 1-2 small beets, boiled, peeled and coarsely grated (or just use a can of julienned beets. Make sure they are just canned, NOT pickled with vinegar, as it will affect the taste).
• 3 cups (750 ml) buttermilk
• 1 medium cucumber, quartered and sliced
• 1/4 cup (a small handfull) chopped green onion  
• 2 tablespoons (an even smaller handfull) chopped fresh(!) dill
• A generous pinch of salt
• 4 hard-boiled eggs
• Hot boiled or fried potatoes for serving

Preparation: 

Just mix all the ingredients (except eggs and potatoes) in a large bowl or pot. If using canned beets, you can add extra juice to make the color brighter pink if you wish.

Place one egg cut in half in a bowl, ladle the soup on it. Serve with hot potatoes.


Serves 4

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