Jamie Oliver Broccoli Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup is a wholesome, hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days. The recipe is simple but rich in flavor, bringing out the natural goodness of broccoli. What’s great about this soup is its versatility-while the base is just broccoli, it’s elevated with a few ingredients like garlic, stock and sometimes a dash of cream. It’s nutritious, easy to make and full of vibrant green goodness. Jamie keeps things fresh and approachable, ensuring it’s a soup anyone can whip up in a flash. This soup fits all needs.

Jamie Oliver Broccoli Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Broccoli – The star of the show. You’ll need about 2 heads of fresh broccoli, chopped into florets.
2. Olive oil – To sauté the onions and garlic and add richness to the base of the soup.
3. Onions – One medium onion, chopped. It provides a sweet, savory foundation for the soup.
4. Garlic – Two cloves, finely chopped. Garlic adds depth and a little kick.
5. Vegetable stock – Around 1 liter of good-quality vegetable stock or broth. This gives the soup its savory, umami flavor.
6. Salt and pepper – To season, with a pinch of each to taste.
7. Optional additions – A splash of cream (for richness) or a squeeze of lemon (for some brightness). Some people like to add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens.

That’s really it! The ingredients are minimal but come together to create a smooth and satisfying soup.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a lot of fancy gadgets for this one. Here’s the equipment to gather:

1. Large pot or saucepan. A deep pot to sauté your ingredients and then simmer the soup.
2. Chopping board and knife. To chop up your onions, garlic and broccoli.
3. Blender or hand blender. A standard blender or an immersion blender (hand blender) is what you’ll use to blend the soup until it’s silky smooth.
4. Ladle and serving bowls. To dish up your finished creation.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup

1. Prep your ingredients. Start by chopping the broccoli into florets. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. You want everything ready before you start cooking because it all comes together quickly.
2. Sauté the aromatics. In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the onions and garlic. Let them sauté for about 5 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant. Don’t let them brown. just a gentle sweat to bring out the flavors.
3. Cook the broccoli. Add the broccoli florets to the pot and toss them around for a few minutes. The idea here is to get the broccoli slightly tender, so it doesn’t take too long-around 3 minutes.
4. Add the stock. Pour in the vegetable stock, making sure the broccoli is mostly submerged. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for around 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender. This is when the flavors meld.
5. Blend the soup. Once your broccoli is tender, it’s time to blend. If you’re using a standard blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches. If you have an immersion blender, just blend the soup directly in the pot. Blend until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a little extra stock or water.
6. Season to taste. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. You can also stir in a little cream for richness or a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness. Some people like a bit of cheese grated on top but that’s entirely up to you.
7. Serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley) and enjoy!

What I Learnt

This soup taught me that simplicity often makes the most satisfying meals. The recipe is super forgiving. you don’t need to be a chef to make it taste amazing. Even though it only uses a handful of ingredients, the layers of flavor really shine through. I learned that the combination of garlic and onions adds a natural sweetness that perfectly balances out the slight bitterness of the broccoli.

Also, blending the soup is key to getting that creamy texture. I initially didn’t think blending it would make such a difference but it really transforms the dish from a chunky stew to a smooth, velvety soup. Adding the optional extras like cream or lemon completely changes the soup’s personality.You can adjust it based on your mood.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup

Jamie Oliver’s broccoli soup is already a classic. simple, wholesome and packed with flavor. But you can definitely make it your own with a few creative tweaks.

1. Add a Protein Boost

   If you want a heartier soup, consider adding a protein source. Shredded chicken, crispy bacon bits or even some white beans can elevate the dish. They add texture, flavor and keep you fuller for longer.

2. Try Different Greens

   While broccoli is the star, swapping in other greens can give the soup a unique twist. Kale, spinach or even peas can complement the broccoli’s flavor. If you go for kale, remove the stems and chop the leaves into smaller pieces so they soften well in the broth.

3. Spices and Herbs

   A sprinkle of cumin, coriander or smoked paprika can transform the soup from mild to bold. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add depth. A squeeze of lemon or lime at the end of cooking brightens everything up. If you’re into spice, a dash of chili flakes can bring a warm kick.

4. Add a Creamy Element

   While Jamie’s recipe keeps things on the lighter side, a swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche makes the soup even richer. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream gives a velvety texture.

5. Roast the Broccoli First

   Roasting the broccoli before blending it into the soup can intensify the flavor. It gives the broccoli a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory base. Simply toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

6. Try a Different Base

   Instead of using just onions and garlic, try caramelizing leeks or shallots for a sweeter, more complex flavor. You can even swap some of the broth for a splash of white wine or vegetable stock for a slightly different base.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you’ve made a big pot of Jamie Oliver’s broccoli soup and have leftovers, you’re in luck. This soup actually stores and reheats beautifully which makes it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

1. Cool First, Then Store

   Let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from building up inside the container which could cause the soup to lose its texture.

2. Airtight Containers

   Store your leftover soup in airtight containers. Glass jars or food-safe plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are great. Make sure there’s enough room for the soup to expand a bit in the freezer if you’re freezing it.

3. Freezing the Soup

   If you want to store it long-term, freeze the soup in portions. Freeze it flat in resealable bags to save space. When you’re ready to eat, just defrost in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen.

4. Reheating

   To reheat, place the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir often to ensure it doesn’t burn at the bottom. If the soup thickens after being stored, add a bit of water, broth or a splash of milk to bring it back to the right consistency.

5. Storage Time

   In the fridge, this soup will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you freeze it, aim to use it within 3 months for the best flavor and texture.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup?

When it comes to pairing, you want something that complements the soup’s earthy, comforting flavor without overshadowing it. Here are some perfect sides:

1. Fresh, Crusty Bread

   A thick slice of rustic, crusty bread is a classic side. The bread soaks up the broth and the chewiness gives contrast to the smoothness of the soup. Try sourdough for a tangy kick or a nice whole grain loaf for a hearty option.

2. Cheese Toasties

   Another comforting side is a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The crispy, buttery toast and melty cheese are the perfect match for the smooth, green goodness of the soup. You could even add a little bit of mustard or pickles inside for extra flavor.

3. Salads with Tangy Dressings

   A bright, tangy salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a mixed greens salad with a lemony vinaigrette or a beetroot salad with goat cheese and walnuts. The acidity in the dressing will cut through the soup’s creaminess.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   Roasted carrots, parsnips or sweet potatoes pair really well with broccoli soup. Their sweetness and caramelized edges contrast beautifully with the soup’s mild flavors.

5. Hard-Boiled Eggs or Poached Eggs

   Adding an egg on top can make the soup feel more like a meal. The richness of the yolk adds another layer of creaminess. If you like a bit of texture, opt for a poached egg.

6. Crispy Chickpeas

   For a little crunch, try roasted chickpeas seasoned with your favorite spices. Their crispiness will add a fun contrast to the soup and bring in extra protein, if you’re into that.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup Recipe Special?

It’s simple, fresh, and packed with flavor, using just a few ingredients like broccoli, garlic, and stock. Plus, it’s creamy without any cream!

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup Vegan?

Yes! Just swap the butter for olive oil and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Soup Thicker?

You can add a bit of potato or blend the soup for longer to get a smoother, thicker consistency.