Ingredients
Method
- Simmer whole beets in water for 45–60 minutes until fork-tender, or roast at 400°F for about 40 minutes for deeper sweetness.
- Cool slightly, peel beets using paper towels or gloves, then chop into chunks.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy pot over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add chopped beets, orange zest, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, thyme or fennel seed, and vegetable stock.
- Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes so flavors meld and brighten.
- Blend soup until mostly smooth, leaving a little texture if desired, adding extra stock or water to adjust thickness.
- Season with salt and black pepper, taste, and adjust acidity or salt as needed.
- Serve warm, topped with yogurt or a dairy-free alternative and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Roasting beets first creates deeper sweetness, while simmering keeps flavors lighter and brighter. Blend in batches and vent lids carefully when hot. For make-ahead meals, store chilled soup up to one week and reheat gently, thinning with stock or water if needed.
