1. Simmer the beef in the water or stock until tender. Remove the cooked beef from broth and cut it into small dice 3. Measure the broth and, if necessary, add water to bring it back un 3 qt (3 L). 4. Return the meat to the broth. 5. Heat the butter in a heavy pot. Add the onion, leeks, and cabbage Cook slowly in the butter about 5 minutes. 6. Drain the beets, reserving juice. Grate beets on a coarse grater or chop them fine. 7. Add the onion mixture, beets, beet juice, tomato purée, vinegar, and sugar to the meat and broth. 8. Bring to a boil and simmer until the vegetables are tender. 9. Season to taste with salt, white pepper, and more vinegar if desired. 10. Serve each portion topped with a spoonful of sour cream.