Chefs revealed what to put in borscht first: potatoes or cabbage.

According to ТСН: Borscht is not just a first course, but a true symbol of Ukrainian cuisine. While there are countless recipes, many housewives ask: what to put in the pot first - potatoes or cabbage? An incorrect order may lead to vegetables becoming too hard or, conversely, overcooked, and the borscht itself losing its aroma. Professional chefs have suggested how to correctly arrange the perfect sequence for maximum enjoyment of the dish's taste.

What to add to borscht first - cabbage or potatoes: chefs' answer

First, you need to put the potatoes, as they take longer to cook than cabbage. If you add the cabbage first, it can overcook and lose its texture, whereas the potatoes will remain partially raw. After the broth boils, first add the potatoes, which allows for a richer flavor.

We add cabbage after the potatoes, when they are half-cooked. Chefs note that cabbage needs just ten minutes of boiling to remain juicy with a pleasant crunch. If added earlier, it will darken, lose its shape, and dissolve in the dish.

Why the order is so important

• Potatoes form the thickness of the dish. While boiling, they release starch, which makes the borscht rich.

• Cabbage is responsible for the structure. It should remain firm, not turn into mush.

• The borscht's taste becomes deeper. Each vegetable cooks just as long as needed and releases its aroma at the right moment.

Additional tips from professional chefs

• Sautéing - beetroots, carrots, and onions - should only be added at the end, when the cabbage is almost ready, so the vegetables retain their color and sweetness.

• Beetroot does not lose its ruby color if you add a spoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

• Bay leaf is best added after turning off the heat to avoid bitterness.

Therefore, preparing borscht requires attention to detail and adherence to the order of adding ingredients. It is essential to remember that each vegetable plays its role in shaping the aroma and taste of the dish. The uniqueness of this Ukrainian dish lies not only in the mixture of products but also in the art of preparation.

Thanks to the tips from chefs, making borscht becomes simpler and clearer, and the result - tastier and more refined. The passion for traditional Ukrainian cuisine allows the flavor spots of borscht to be preserved for each generation, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy this delicious dish.