Christmas Borscht

Ingredients

 * 32 oz Beets, diced canned
 * 3 c Water
 * 1 Celery stalk
 * 1 Carrot, quartered
 * 1 Bay leaf
 * 1 Garlic clove, peeled
 * 1/4 ts Peppercorns, whole
 * 1 tb Lemon juice
 * 1 t Sugar
 * 1 Dairy sour cream or dill sprigs
 * 1/4 ts Salt
 * Pepper to taste

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