My ancestors lived in Eastern Europe for many generations (although my family is quick to remind that we are of western European stock). Growing up, the dinner table was always filled with hearty soups and breads, various pickled things (yes, we didn't always know what they were), and every kind of potato dish imaginable.

To this day, a hearty winter stew is my ultimate comfort food - and none better than my grandma's borscht. It's the best of all worlds, inexpensive to make, covers the four food groups, is reasonably low in fat and salt, plus plenty of roughage. It tastes best the day after cooking and so easy to make you might say it's idiot-proof. Without any further ado....