Name: Russian Buckwheat Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ medium yellow onion (diced); 1 cup diced carrot; 4 ounces mushrooms (sliced, any type); 1 large chicken breast (cubed); 2 cups cubed potato; 6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock); ½ cup buckwheat (toasted, not the raw green ones); 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 bay leaves dried or fresh

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There’s something truly heartwarming about a bowl of Russian Buckwheat Soup. I remember the first time I tasted it—it was a chilly winter evening, and the comforting aroma wafted through the kitchen, drawing me in. As I settled down with a warm bowl in hand, the nutty flavor of buckwheat mingling with tender vegetables and savory broth brought back memories of family gatherings around the table. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cold days when you crave something nourishing and delicious. The best part? It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just warming up for yourself, this Russian Buckwheat Soup is sure to bring joy with every spoonful.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Russian Buckwheat Soup Is a Winner

It’s Incredibly Nutritious

When I think about the benefits of Russian Buckwheat Soup, nutrition is at the top of the list. Buckwheat is not only gluten-free, but it’s also packed with protein and essential nutrients. Incorporating vegetables like carrots, onions, and mushrooms adds vitamins and minerals, making this soup a powerhouse of health.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s a reason we reach for soups during the colder months—nothing warms you up quite like a steaming bowl of Russian Buckwheat Soup. The rich flavors combined with the hearty texture create a satisfying dish that feels like a warm embrace on a winter day. It truly is the definition of comfort food!

Simple and Accessible Ingredients

One of the great things about this recipe is that it uses simple, accessible ingredients. You likely have most of them in your pantry already! From the buckwheat to the chicken and vegetables, this dish is straightforward to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy cooking techniques.

Versatile and Adaptable

What I love most about Russian Buckwheat Soup is how easily it adapts to your tastes. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even swap the chicken for a vegetarian option. You can easily make it a personal favorite by adjusting the seasonings or adding unique twists.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup is great for meal prepping! It stores well in the fridge and can even be frozen, allowing you to whip it out on busy days when you crave something warm and nourishing. Just reheat and enjoy a homemade meal without any fuss!

A Family Favorite

There’s a nostalgic quality to Russian Buckwheat Soup that makes it a family favorite. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s at a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner. Sharing this soup with loved ones, just as my family did, creates cherished moments and memories.

What to Gather for Russian Buckwheat Soup

Gathering ingredients for Russian Buckwheat Soup is a delightful process that highlights the beauty of simple, wholesome foods. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The key players, including buckwheat, chicken, and aromatic vegetables, come together to create a satisfying bowl of soup.

1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil: This oil adds richness and acts as the base for sautéing the vegetables, imparting a lovely flavor to the soup.
½ medium yellow onion, diced: The onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish as they cook down and caramelize.
1 cup diced carrot: Carrots add a gentle sweetness and vibrant color, making the soup visually appealing.
4 ounces (120g) mushrooms, sliced: Mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1 large chicken breast, cubed: The chicken adds protein and heartiness to the soup, making it a filling meal.
2 cups cubed potato: Potatoes lend a comforting texture to the soup, soaking up the flavors as they cook.
6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken stock or vegetable stock: Stock is the heart of any soup, enhancing all the flavors and bringing them together.
½ cup (75g) buckwheat, toasted: Toasted buckwheat adds a nutty note and a unique texture that is crucial to this dish.
1 teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the overall flavors of the soup.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Black pepper adds a hint of spice and balances the flavors.
2 bay leaves, dried or fresh: Bay leaves infuse the soup with a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.

Directions for Russian Buckwheat Soup

Preparing Russian Buckwheat Soup is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dish together!

Start by washing and chopping the onions, carrots, mushrooms, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking and make it easier to enjoy each spoonful.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent, stirring occasionally. This typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
Next, follow with the carrots, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes or until they start to soften. You want them to maintain some crunch for texture.
Add the cubed chicken to the pot and sear it until it’s golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This step will lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.
Stir in the mushrooms and allow them to cook for about a minute before adding the potatoes. The mushrooms will release their moisture, which adds depth to the soup.
Now it’s time to pour in the stock. Follow it with the toasted buckwheat, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. The stock is key to infusing flavor into the soup.
Add the salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the pot. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes. This is the magic moment when all the flavors meld together, creating a delicious broth.
Once the soup is ready, serve it in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. For a creamy touch, consider stirring in a tablespoon of yogurt in the center of the bowl before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Bay Leaves: Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving, as they can be tough to eat.
Texture Matters: Adjust the cooking time of the potatoes to achieve your desired texture—soft but not mushy is ideal.
Flavor Infusion: The longer the soup simmers, the more robust the flavor will be. Let it simmer a bit longer if you have the time.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable stock. Add more vegetables for flavor and texture.

Make It Your Own

Making Russian Buckwheat Soup truly unique is part of the fun. Here are some ideas to help you customize this delicious recipe!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to two months.
Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. It makes a delightful lunch or dinner!
Spice It Up: Add spices like paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Garnish: Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic finish.

Great Combinations for Russian Buckwheat Soup

Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping—a classic combination that never disappoints.
Fresh Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the heartiness of the soup.
Cozy Dinner: Serve this soup for a comforting family dinner, especially on chilly winter nights.
Meal Prep: This soup is perfect for meal prepping, as it reheats beautifully and is satisfying for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like kale or cabbage for more nutrition and flavor.
Occasional Gatherings: This soup is a great dish for gatherings, providing warmth and comfort for guests during special occasions.

FAQ

Russian Buckwheat Soup stands out due to its unique combination of flavors and textures. The nutty taste of toasted buckwheat complements the hearty vegetables and tender chicken, making it incredibly satisfying and nourishing. This soup not only warms you up on cold days, but it also brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking memories of cozy family dinners.

Absolutely! To make a delicious vegetarian version of Russian Buckwheat Soup, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock. You can also add more vegetables like kale or peas to enhance the flavor and nutrition, making it just as hearty and satisfying!

Leftover Russian Buckwheat Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. It’s best to reheat it on the stovetop over low heat to prevent it from becoming too thick. You can also freeze it for up to two months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks!

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light grain salad. The combination not only enhances the meal’s flavors but also provides a variety of textures and nutrients!

Conclusion

In summary, Russian Buckwheat Soup is a heartwarming dish that beautifully combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s a recipe that not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul. I encourage you to try making this delightful soup at home, and share it with loved ones. You’ll find that it brings everyone together, creating cherished memories over a comforting bowl of goodness.