This Okroshka recipe, a classic Russian summer soup, is the ultimate chilled dish to enjoy on warm days. Made with fresh cucumbers, diced ham, potatoes, and a tangy sour cream base, it’s light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for those looking for a healthy summer recipe, this dish is packed with nutrients and customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing starter or a satisfying main course, this cold soup recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

8 cups cold water
1/3 cup sour cream
3 1/2 Tbsp vinegar, divided
2 1/2 tsp salt
3 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or frozen)
1/2 cup green onion, finely chopped
1/2 lb good-quality ham (e.g., black forest ham), diced
3-4 medium cooked potatoes, peeled and diced
3 hard-boiled eggs, diced
3-4 cucumbers, diced

Instructions

Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into 1/4-inch cubes. Place them in a medium pot, cover with water, and add 1 Tbsp of vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and allow them to cool. To speed up the cooling process, rinse with cold water and set aside.
Cook the eggs: While the potatoes are cooking, boil 3 eggs until hard-boiled. Cool them quickly in ice water, then peel and dice.
Chop the ingredients: Dice the eggs, cucumbers, and ham into bite-sized pieces. Chop the dill and green onions. Combine all these ingredients in a large pot.
Mix the soup base: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cold water, sour cream, 2 1/2 Tbsp of vinegar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine everything: Pour the soup base over the prepared ingredients in the pot. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
Serve: Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Enjoy a refreshing and tangy bowl of okroshka!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and light: Perfect for hot summer days, this chilled soup is hydrating and satisfying.
Balanced flavors: The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory ingredients makes it unique and delicious.
Easy and quick: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, it’s a great option for busy days.
Nutrient-packed: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein, and healthy herbs, this soup is both delicious and nourishing.

Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh dill and good-quality ham.
Chill the soup thoroughly before serving for optimal taste.
Adjust the vinegar and salt to your preference for a perfectly balanced soup.
A mandoline slicer or food chopper can save time when prepping vegetables.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat options: Swap ham for cooked chicken, turkey, or even smoked salmon for a twist.
Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and add more eggs or diced tofu.
Vinegar substitute: Use lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a milder tang.
Extra veggies: Add radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

FAQs

Can I make okroshka in advance?
Yes! In fact, the flavors develop and blend better when it’s refrigerated for a few hours before serving.

What type of potatoes should I use?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well after boiling and work best.

Can I use kefir instead of water and sour cream?
Absolutely! Kefir or buttermilk can be used for a more traditional Russian okroshka.

Serving

Serve okroshka cold in bowls or cups, garnished with extra dill or green onion. Pair it with a slice of rye bread or crusty baguette for a complete meal.

Suggestions

For a traditional touch, serve okroshka with a side of sour cream or a hard-boiled egg half. It’s a fantastic choice for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. Customize the flavor by adding a splash of sparkling water or kvass for an authentic Russian experience!