CHLODNIK (COLD POLISH BEET SOUP)

4 or 5 young, tender beets, with tops if possible

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cucumbers, peeled and grated

6 radishes, grated

3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

2 green onions (white and green parts), chopped

4 cups plain yogurt

4 cups kefir or buttermilk

1 cup sour cream

salt and pepper, to taste

3 hard boiled eggs, quartered

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the beets by removing and dicing the stems up to the leaves

2. Add the chopped stems to a large soup pot

3. Peel and grate the remaining beet roots, add to the pan

4. Add enough water just to cover the beets, add salt

5. Simmer until tender, about 15 minutes

6. Cool the beet mixture

7. Add the cucumbers, radishes, dill, green onions, yogurt, kefir, and sour cream.

8. Season with salt and pepper

9. Chill and serve garnished with hard boiled egg