Holodnik – Russian Cold Soup Recipe

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Holodnik is a wonderful blend of earthy beets, crisp cucumbers, and creamy buttermilk, making it a light but flavorful soup. The tang of buttermilk combined with the sweetness of the beets and the crunchiness of the cucumbers gives this dish a refreshing balance of textures and flavors. It’s naturally vegetarian, healthy, and can be customized to your taste, whether you prefer it more savory or sweet. The boiled eggs and sour cream garnish add a creamy, comforting touch to this chilled soup. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 3 large cooked red beets (or 5 small cooked beets)
• 2 quarts boiled and cooled water
• 1 quart buttermilk
• 1 medium onion or 3 green onions
• 4 cucumbers
• 1 Tbsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 bunch fresh dill
• 4-6 boiled eggs (optional)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Beets:

• Begin by boiling the beets until they are tender. This usually takes around 30–40 minutes. Once the beets are cooked, drain the water and let them cool. After cooling, peel the skins off and shred the beets into small pieces.

2. Prepare the Liquid Base:

• In a large pot, combine the 2 quarts of boiled and cooled water with 1 quart of buttermilk. Mix well to create the soup base. This will form the tangy and refreshing liquid for the soup.

3. Add the Beets and Seasonings:

• Add the shredded beets to the water and buttermilk mixture. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sea salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or saltier flavor.

4. Add Vegetables and Dill:

• Slice the medium onion (or green onions) and dice the cucumbers into small pieces. Add both the onions and cucumbers to the pot, along with a bunch of chopped fresh dill. Stir everything to combine.

5. Chill the Soup:

• Transfer the soup to the fridge and let it cool completely for at least a few hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to become nice and chilled.

6. Serve:

• Serve the Holodnik cold, garnished with half a boiled egg per serving. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and richness.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes (for the beets)
• Chill time: 3+ hours (or overnight)
• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including chill time)
• Yield: 10 servings

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free buttermilk substitute (such as cashew milk with a splash of lemon or vinegar) to make this soup vegan.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped hot peppers for a bit of heat to balance out the coolness of the soup.
• Extra Veggies: You can add additional vegetables like carrots or radishes for more crunch and flavor.
• Chilled Garnish: In addition to the boiled egg, you can garnish with extra fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Holodnik in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables and buttermilk may change after freezing and thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Holodnik is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it’s best when chilled for a few hours or even overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Can I use raw beets instead of cooked?

While raw beets could technically be used, cooking the beets first allows for better flavor and texture. Cooked beets are tender and easier to shred, which is essential for the soup.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, if you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some finely chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.

Can I use other herbs besides dill?

Yes! While dill is traditional, you can experiment with other fresh herbs such as parsley or tarragon to change up the flavor profile.

What can I serve with Holodnik?

Holodnik is typically served as a light, refreshing starter or a side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad. You could also serve it alongside a grilled fish or chicken dish for a complete meal.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, Holodnik is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients.

Conclusion

Holodnik is a refreshing, flavorful, and healthy cold soup that’s perfect for hot days or when you want something light yet satisfying. The combination of tangy buttermilk, earthy beets, and crunchy cucumbers makes it a deliciously unique dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a crowd. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this Russian classic will be a refreshing addition to your recipe collection.

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