Developed for MBF CSA Members by chef and Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist Alexeis Filipello
— part of the culinary offerings of the California College of Ayurveda
Originally posted on 6/16/2026
Early summer is a fantastic time for fresh produce, and Mountain Bounty is growing some truly stellar vegetables right now. At Rasa Kitchen, we focus deeply on the strength of digestion, or “Agni”, which is considered the root of overall health. This internal fire produces the energy our bodies need to function; when it doesn't burn cleanly, it's time to tweak our diet and support our digestive system. In the summer heat, our bodies naturally crave lighter foods. To stay balanced as the temperature rises, we want to focus on cooling the system with supportive herbs, sweet roots, and refreshing summer vegetables.
INGREDIENTS:
1-2 TBSP avocado oil
1 onion diced
2-3 Beets peeled and cubed
1-2 tbsp “No chicken” (better than bouillon is my go to)
Water to cover
1 TSP Cumin powder
1 TSP Coriander
½ head Napa Cabbage (or cabbage of choice) sliced thin and bites sized
3 carrots peeled and cubed
1-2 Zucchini shredded
Black pepper
GARNISH:
Diced Cucumbers (optional)
Diced radish (optional)
Fresh dill
Fresh Parsley finely chopped
Scallions
Drizzle of good olive oil
Dollop of fermented yoghurt or kefir of choice
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a pot, sauté onions, add beets, bouillon, cumin, coriander, and water and cook until fork tender. Add carrots, cabbage and cook until softened. When the borscht has cooled slightly add zucchini and black pepper and salt to taste. Serve warm or cold, garnish with cucumber, radish, fresh dill, parsley, scallions and a good drizzle of olive oil. A few cracks of black pepper as well as a dollop of yoghurt or kefir.
This recipe is also awesome blended with the yogurt and garnished with all the above garnishes.
Enjoy!