The First Time I had Heart-Strengthening Borscht

I didn't know what it was or why in the world it was pink. " Beets!" my husband chef told me. But that didn't make me want to eat it. I missed a couple of opportunities when he brought a jar home, feeling like a child, hoping he wouldn't insist I try it. Then there was the day that I did.

My neighbor's wife had passed away and his son told me his father loved Borscht. I had beets in the fridge so I looked up the recipe and proceeded to discover one of the greatest comfort foods I could ever imagine. Later, my neighbor told me, "My wife used to make this!" and he smiled soulfully through puffy eyes.

Borscht is simple fare. It is easy to make and includes grated beets, turning the soup pink. This vegetarian dish is easy to digest, warming and flavorful- and once you try it, you're bound to love it! It is a grounding root vegetable that strengthens the heart, purifies the blood, benefits the liver, moistens the intestines, and it calms the spirit.