Jamie Oliver’s Runner Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the fresh taste of runner beans with rich, comforting ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup is both nourishing and easy to make. With a blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a touch of creaminess, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to create Jamie Oliver’s Runner Bean Soup, ensuring that every spoonful is delicious and satisfying.
What is Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup?
Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup is a simple yet flavorful soup made from runner beans, potatoes, onions, and a selection of herbs. It’s a comforting dish that showcases the natural sweetness of runner beans, complemented by the creaminess of potatoes and the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup is both nutritious and delicious.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common, easy-to-find ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of runner beans and potatoes creates a creamy, comforting soup.
- Versatile: Can be served as a light starter or a main course, depending on your needs.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup
- Runner Beans: 400g (14 oz), trimmed and chopped.
- Potatoes: 300g (10.5 oz), peeled and diced.
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Vegetable Stock: 1 liter (34 fl oz), to create the soup base.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the vegetables.
- Fresh Thyme: 1 sprig, for an aromatic touch.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Cream (optional): A splash, to add creaminess if desired.
Useful Equipment
- Large Pot: For cooking the soup.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the soup as it cooks.
- Blender or Hand Blender: To puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Ladle: For serving the soup.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and trimming the runner beans. Chop them into small pieces. Peel and dice the potatoes, and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Beans
Add the diced potatoes and chopped runner beans to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the oil and onion mixture.
Step 4: Pour in the Stock
Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring that the vegetables are fully covered. Add the sprig of fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Simmer the soup for about 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes and beans are tender.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
Remove the sprig of thyme. Use a blender or hand blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in a splash of cream for added richness. Serve hot, garnished with a few fresh thyme leaves.
What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup?
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle on top for extra flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
- Croutons: Add a crunchy texture to the soup.
- Side Salad: Serve with a light salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup
- Use Fresh Beans: For the best flavor, use fresh runner beans.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more stock or water to thin it out.
- Blend to Your Preference: You can make the soup as smooth or as chunky as you like.
- Add Cream Last: If using cream, add it just before serving to avoid curdling.
- Season Well: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup
- Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add some chopped, crispy bacon before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy version of the soup.
- Herb Variations: Try using fresh rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a different flavor.
- Use Leeks: Substitute the onion with leeks for a sweeter, milder taste.
- Vegan Option: Skip the cream and use a plant-based cream alternative.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup Leftovers?
- Keep in the Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: Soup can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, warm the soup over low heat to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup Leftovers?
- Stovetop: Warm slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
- Add Water if Needed: If the soup has thickened too much, add a little water or stock while reheating.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin C: 25% of the Daily Value
FAQs
How long does homemade Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup last?
Homemade Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions, and it will keep for up to 3 months.
Can I make Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup with other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute runner beans with other green beans or even broad beans. The flavor will be slightly different, but the soup will still be delicious.
Why is my Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup too thick?
If your soup is too thick, you may have used too little stock or over-reduced it during cooking. Simply add a bit more vegetable stock or water and stir well to reach your desired consistency.
Do I need to peel the potatoes for Jamie Oliver Runner Bean Soup?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, it’s best to peel them. However, leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients to the soup.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Runner Bean Soup is a simple yet hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors and comforting texture, this soup is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural goodness of runner beans. Whether served as a starter or a main course, it’s sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied. Enjoy making this delicious soup at home and share it with family and friends!