The main ingredient in traditional Russian borscht is beetroot (beets), which gives the soup its distinctive deep red color. Borscht is a hearty and flavorful soup that often includes ingredients such as cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes meat like beef or pork. It is typically seasoned with dill and served with a dollop of sour cream, which balances the earthiness of the beets. While borscht has many regional variations, it is particularly popular in Eastern European countries and has become an important symbol of Russian cuisine and culture.