I first discovered Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli and Stilton Soup when I was hunting for something hearty and easy to whip up on a chilly weekend. The idea of combining the rich, creamy texture of the soup with the bold flavor of Stilton cheese intrigued me. After the first spoonful, I was hooked. The soup had the perfect balance of earthy and sharp, with a velvety consistency that made it both comforting and sophisticated. Now, every time I make it, it reminds me of those quiet, cozy days spent in the kitchen, savoring the warmth of a meal that feels like a big hug from the inside.
Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli And Stilton Soup Recipe
Jamie’s recipe is one of those meals that feels like a celebration in a bowl. It’s a fusion of creamy, velvety texture and rich, tangy cheese, with just the right amount of broccoli to make it a standout dish. What’s great about this soup is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull it off. In fact, it’s pretty hard to mess up!
Here’s how you can recreate it at home:
Ingredients Needed
For the soup, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Each one plays a part in giving the soup its distinctive flavor:
- Broccoli (fresh): About 2 large heads, chopped. The broccoli gives the soup a fresh, slightly sweet flavor with a bit of bite. It also adds color and nutrition to the dish.
- Stilton cheese: Roughly 100-150g. This blue cheese brings a strong, creamy tanginess that defines the soup’s character. Don’t skimp on it!
- Leeks: Two leeks, cleaned and chopped. These are milder than onions and add a delicate sweetness to the broth.
- Vegetable stock: Around 1 liter. This helps bring the soup together while keeping it vegetarian. If you’re after more depth, you could use chicken stock.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons for sautéing the leeks and giving a rich, savory base.
- Olive oil: A drizzle for sautéing, offering a smooth texture.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning. Add these to taste, but remember the Stilton can be salty, so season with care.
- A splash of milk or cream (optional): For a silkier texture if you prefer.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli And Stilton Soup
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process. This recipe is perfect if you want a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
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Prepare The Veggies
- Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets.
- Slice the leeks thinly and rinse them well to remove any dirt.
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Cook The Base
- In a large pot, heat the butter and a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent.
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Add The Broccoli
- Stir in the broccoli and let it cook for a few minutes, giving it time to absorb some of that buttery goodness.
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Add The Stock
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Blend The Soup
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse it a few times for a rustic finish.
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Stir In The Stilton
- Crumble the Stilton cheese into the soup and stir it in until it melts into the creamy base.
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Season To Taste
- Add salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using milk or cream, pour it in at this stage to reach your desired consistency.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with a little extra Stilton or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One of the most interesting things about this soup is the way the ingredients work together. Each one brings something special to the table:
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, it’s the perfect green to base a soup around. The fiber in broccoli also makes it filling, so you don’t need to worry about getting hungry soon after.
- Stilton Cheese: This cheese is rich in both flavor and calcium. The fermentation process that gives Stilton its blue veins also contributes to its distinct tang. It’s a great source of protein and has a deep, savory taste that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the broccoli.
- Leeks: Leeks belong to the allium family (like onions and garlic) but have a milder, sweeter flavor. They’re also high in antioxidants and fiber, making them a great addition to the soup’s nutritional profile.
- Stock: The liquid in the soup forms the base of the dish, carrying all the flavors of the veggies and Stilton. Using a good-quality vegetable or chicken stock adds richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh is always best for this soup. Frozen broccoli can get mushy and lose some of its vibrant flavor.
- Don’t overcook the leeks: If you let the leeks cook too long, they can lose their delicate sweetness. Just a few minutes in the pan should do.
- Control the Stilton’s strength: Stilton cheese is pretty potent. Start with a little and taste the soup before adding more. You can always increase the amount if you want a stronger cheese flavor.
- Blend to your liking: Some prefer a completely smooth soup, while others like a bit of texture. If you’re blending, adjust the consistency to your preference.
Recipe Variations
This soup is flexible, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste:
- Add herbs: A little thyme or rosemary can add an earthy twist to the flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free blue cheese alternative to make the soup vegan. You can also swap in coconut milk for a rich, non-dairy alternative.
- Add roasted garlic: Roasting garlic beforehand gives it a sweet, mellow flavor that complements the broccoli and Stilton.
- Swap the cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Final Words
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich, velvety texture combined with the bold flavor of Stilton creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re serving it on a rainy day or as a starter to a cozy dinner, it’s bound to impress.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli And Stilton Soup?
The main ingredients are broccoli, stilton cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable stock, and a bit of milk or cream for richness.
Can I Use A Different Cheese Instead Of Stilton?
Yes, you can swap stilton for other strong blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola, but it may change the flavor.
How Do I Make The Soup Vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, use a plant-based cheese and swap the cream or milk for coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative.