1 (15 oz.) can whole beets, chilled
1 qt. buttermilk, well chilled
1 sm. onion, chopped
2 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. tomato paste
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar (opt.)

In blender, put beets and juice, onion, lemon juice, tomato paste, salt, sugar (if used) and 2 cups buttermilk. Blend until smooth. Add remaining 2 cups buttermilk and puree for 10 seconds. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and chopped chives. Serves 6.