Borsht

The classic Russian poor-man's soup. AMAZING! One of things I must have in the winter. It is so easy to make. Here is my version:

1pd beef shank
1lb of stew meat cut up into cubes
2 large potatoes cut up into cubes
1 can of beets OR take a pound of fresh beets and roast them in the oven with salt, pepper and olive oil at 350 degrees until soft
1/2 head of green cabbage
4 Dried Bay Leaves
2 Large Carrots, diced
1 can of diced tomatoes- You can also use the can of diced tomatoes with chilies to make it a little spicy

In a large pot, brown the stew meat with olive oil, in batches if necessary. Shred half head of cabbage by cutting it thinly and add it to the pot and add the beets, the potatoes, carrots, bay leaves and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Fill the pot with 8-10 cups of water and let it simmer for a good hour. Take the bones out and serve.

I LOVE serving this with some Russian mustard. A dollop goes a long way. I also know that it is traditional to serve with a little dollop of sour cream. This recipe can be canned as well.

Enjoy!