Borscht

Directions

1. 1
   1. Fill a large stock pot (8 or 12 quart) with water, about half way.
2. 2
   Over medium-low heat, add the cubed beef, bullion and bay leaf. Let the beef cook slowly, so it is tender, at least 45 min.
3. 3
   As the foam accumulates on the surface, skim it off with a large spoon.
4. 4
   2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, add half the oil and then the julienned beets. Saute for 15 minutes or so, stirring frequently.
5. 5
   3. In another large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining oil, julienned carrots and onions. Mix and saute for 10 minutes.
6. 6
   4. While the beets, carrots and onions cook, add the sliced cabbage and 2-3 tbsp salt to the stock pot, to taste. Cook for 5-10 minutes and then add the potato to the stock pot.
7. 7
   5. Use the beets' frying pan and SAUTE the tomato paste w/tsp of oil for 5 min. This will remove any metallic taste. Add tomato paste and stems from dill or parsley.
8. 8
   6. Once the potatoes are cooked, add the beets, carrots and onion to the stock pot.
9. 9
   7. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, covered with a lid. Turn the heat off. Remove dill/parsley stems. Although it's not necessary, it is extremely common to toss in a crushed clove of garlic and let it perfume the soup while it rests for a few minutes.
10. 10
    8. Serve with dill, green onions, a dollop of sour cream and some rye or Pumpernickel bread.