How to Make Okroshka (Traditional Russian Cold Soup)

 

A refreshing, tangy soup perfect for summer days

If you're looking for a light, refreshing and healthy dish to enjoy on a warm day, okroshka is the perfect choice. This traditional Russian cold soup combines crisp raw vegetables, cooked potatoes, eggs, and sometimes meat, all served in a tangy, chilled base of kefir or kvass. It's cooling, full of texture, and surprisingly filling – ideal for a quick lunch or a light evening meal.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

✅ What Is Okroshka?

Okroshka (окрошка) is a cold soup popular across Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe, especially during summer. The name comes from the Russian word "kroshit," which means "to crumble" or "chop finely." That’s exactly what you’ll be doing—combining chopped ingredients with a cold liquid base.

There are two main types of liquid used:

Kvass-based okroshka – tangy, slightly sweet and fermented.

Kefir-based okroshka – creamy, slightly sour and probiotic-rich.

Both versions are incredibly refreshing and easy to customise.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4

For the salad base:

3 medium potatoes, boiled and diced

4 boiled eggs, chopped

4–5 radishes, thinly sliced or diced

1 cucumber, diced

2 spring onions, finely chopped

A handful of fresh dill and parsley, chopped

150g cooked ham, chicken or beef (optional), diced

Salt and pepper to taste

For the liquid base:

500ml kefir (or Greek yoghurt thinned with cold water)

200ml chilled sparkling water

1–2 tsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar (optional, for more tang)

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Okroshka – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Boil the potatoes and eggs in advance, then allow to cool completely. Peel and dice the potatoes and chop the eggs. Prepare all other vegetables and meat by finely chopping them into small, even pieces.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, radishes, cucumber, spring onions, herbs, and meat (if using). Season lightly with salt and pepper.

You can make this up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

Step 3: Make the Soup Base

In a jug or separate bowl, mix the kefir with the sparkling water. Add lemon juice or vinegar if you prefer a tangier taste. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Just before serving, pour the chilled kefir mixture over the chopped ingredients. Stir gently and let it sit in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

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🍽️ How to Serve Okroshka

Serve very cold – you can even add ice cubes if it’s a particularly hot day.

Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

Pair with rye bread or crackers for a complete, light meal.

It’s best enjoyed freshly mixed, though you can keep the salad and liquid separate and combine portions as needed.

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💡 Tips for Making the Best Okroshka

Use cold ingredients – okroshka should never be warm. Pre-chill all ingredients.

Customise it – make it vegetarian or add leftover roast chicken or ham.

Don’t overdress – add the kefir base gradually to reach your preferred consistency.

Try kvass – if you can find kvass (a non-alcoholic rye-based drink), use it as a traditional base instead of kefir.

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🔁 Variations

Vegetarian okroshka – skip the meat and add more boiled potatoes or cooked beans.

Vegan okroshka – use plant-based yoghurt and omit the eggs.

Spicy okroshka – add a dash of mustard or horseradish for a fiery kick.

Fruitier version – try adding apple slices for a sweet-tart twist.

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🧊 Storage & Leftovers

Store the salad and liquid separately in airtight containers.

Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Only combine what you plan to eat immediately to keep textures crisp.

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📌 Final Thoughts

Okroshka is a wonderfully unique dish that offers a fresh take on soup. Perfect for hot British summer days, it’s light, healthy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you make it with kefir, kvass, or yoghurt, okroshka is sure to impress with its vibrant flavours and refreshing taste.

Give it a try next time you want something cool, nutritious, and easy to prepare.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.