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Beet and Fennel Soup with Kefir

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant beetroot and fennel soup is a striking starter or light lunch, offering a beautiful balance of earthy sweetness and aromatic aniseed notes. The deep crimson hue of the beetroot is elegantly tempered by the addition of creamy kefir, which introduces a subtle tang and a smooth texture. By using fresh fennel seeds alongside the bulb, the dish gains an extra layer of complexity that pairs perfectly with the naturally rich flavour of the root vegetables.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this heart-healthy soup is naturally low in salt and provides a nutritious way to enjoy seasonal produce. The use of kefir adds a beneficial probiotic element while keeping the dish feeling light yet satisfying. Serve this homemade soup with a garnish of feathery fennel fronds for a simple, elegant finish that is as nutritious as it is visually appealing.

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Ingredients for Beet and Fennel Soup with Kefir

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 240ml chopped onion

  • 140g chopped fennel bulb

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds

  • 2 large (2 1/2-to 3-inch-diameter) beets, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

  • 475ml low-salt chicken broth

  • 240ml unflavored kefir

  • Additional unflavored kefir

  • Fennel fronds (for garnish)

How to make Beet and Fennel Soup with Kefir

Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, chopped fennel, and fennel seeds. Sauté until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Add cubed beets and stir to coat. Add chicken broth and bring to boil. Cover; reduce heat to medium-low. Cook until beets are tender, 18 to 20 minutes. Puree soup in batches in blender. Return to same saucepan. Whisk in 240ml unflavored kefir and season soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Rewarm soup.

Ladle soup into bowls. Drizzle with additional unflavored kefir; garnish with fennel fronds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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