Raw Vegan Borscht

My friends on Facebook who often read this blog. laughed at me tonight,when I asked what I should do with raw beets. Seriously, I've always loved cooked and pickled beets, but have never been a fan of raw, plain beets. I got lots of great suggestions, and quickly blended up this very tasty treat. I won't say raw beets are my favorite food - but this was definitely tasty. I really have to make some beetkraut sometime soon, but for tonight - here's my Raw Vegan Borscht.

Raw Vegan Borscht Ingredients:
1 beet peeled and chopped
1 large orange, peeled
1 carrot, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1/2 cup water, as needed to thin soup
1/4 cup almonds, soaked overnight (or 1/2 avocado)
1 garlic clove, minced
2 Tablespoons  red onion, chopped
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
1 Tablespoon coconut water vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh chopped basil
1/4 teaspoon dried fennel (optional)
1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 Tablespoon fresh dill)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 apple thinly sliced or chopped (for garnish)
ice cubes - to chill

Directions:
1. Blend soup ingredients. Add ice cubes and blend to chill.
2. Season with black pepper.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and chopped apples, or avocado