Christmas Borscht

Description
Makes 8 servings.

Ingredients

 * 32 oz beets, diced canned
 * 3 cups water
 * 1 celery stalk
 * 1 carrot, quartered
 * 1 bay leaf
 * 1 garlic clove, peeled
 * ¼ tsp peppercorns, whole
 * 1 tbsp lemon juice
 * 1 tsp sugar
 * dairy sour cream or dill sprigs
 * ¼ tsp salt
 * pepper to taste

Directions

 * 1) Drain beets reserving liquid.
 * 2) Set beets aside.
 * 3) In a large saucepan combine beet liquid, water, celery, carrot, bay leaf, garlic, peppercorns and salt.
 * 4) Bring to a boil.
 * 5) Cover, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
 * 6) Remove vegetables and seasonings with a slotted spoon.
 * 7) Stir in reserved diced beets, lemon juice and sugar.
 * 8) Continue cooking 10 minutes or until heated through.
 * 9) Serve topped with sour cream and/or dill sprigs.