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Beet Soup with Horseradish Cream

This vibrant beetroot soup with horseradish cream is a beautiful marriage of earthy, sweet root vegetables and sharp, peppery heat. This vegetarian dish is remarkably simple to prepare, relying on the natural sweetness of fresh beetroot balanced by the zesty lift of lemon and ground coriander. Whether served as a steaming bowl of comfort on a cold evening or chilled for a refreshing summer appetiser, its deep magenta hue makes for a stunning centrepiece on any dining table.

Ideal for a light lunch or an elegant dinner party starter, this healthy soup is packed with nutrients and vibrant flavour. The homemade horseradish cream provides a cooling yet punchy contrast to the mellow soup, elevating the humble beetroot to something truly sophisticated. If you are looking for a satisfying, make-ahead meal that feels both traditional and modern, this recipe is a reliable kitchen staple.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Beet Soup with Horseradish Cream

  • 350ml nondairy soured cream, soy yoghurt, or regular soured cream

  • 45ml finely grated peeled fresh horseradish root

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 stalks celery, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 4 medium beets, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

How to make Beet Soup with Horseradish Cream

In medium bowl, stir together soured cream and horseradish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

In 6-quart stock pot over moderate heat, heat oil until hot but not smoking. Add onions, celery, and garlic and sauté until onions are translucent, about 10 minutes. Add beets and stir until lightly coated with oil. Add 1925ml water, cover, and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until beets are tender and easily pierced with fork but not falling apart, about 1 hour.

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, sugar, coriander, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, topped with horseradish cream, or serve chilled.

: If you plan on serving this soup at two seders and want some variety on the second night, try this twist that combines Eastern European knaidlach (matzoh balls) and Middle Eastern kibbeh (meatballs): Prepare matzoh ball dough (you can use a packaged mix) and chill at least 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, stir together beef mince or lamb, chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped fresh mint, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Form the meat into mini-meatballs. Wrap matzoh ball dough around each meatball to form "knaidlach kibbeh." Boil the balls according to the package directions (the meat will cook inside them). Place two balls in each bowl of hot soup.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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