Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek recipe is a comforting, earthy dish that pairs the creamy texture of butter beans with the subtle sweetness of leeks. Perfect as a vegetarian main or a hearty side, this simple yet flavorful dish is ideal for cozy nights and casual dinners.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Rich in Plant Protein: Butter beans add a good amount of plant-based protein, making this dish both filling and nutritious.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare without needing a long grocery list.
- Budget-Friendly: Butter beans and leeks are affordable ingredients that make a big impact with minimal cost.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or even as a base for more complex meals.
- Satisfying and Creamy: The combination of butter beans and leeks creates a rich, creamy texture without the need for dairy.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek recipe is a simple yet delicious dish featuring the creamy, nutty flavors of butter beans combined with sautéed leeks. This vegetarian-friendly recipe highlights the natural taste of each ingredient, enhanced with basic seasoning.
Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek Recipe
- 2 large leeks, sliced and cleaned
- 2 cans of butter beans (400g each), drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek
Step 1: Prepare the Leeks
Slice the leeks into thin rounds, then rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt trapped in the layers.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Leeks
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the leeks and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become slightly golden.
Step 3: Add the Butter Beans
Add the butter beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the leeks and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Pour in Vegetable Stock
Pour in the vegetable stock, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stock to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a main dish or side.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.
- Side Salad: A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy beans and leeks.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add a mix of grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and flavor.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: These grains make a great base, turning this dish into a complete meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier pairing, serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek Recipe
- Choose Fresh Leeks: Fresh, firm leeks bring out the best flavor in this dish.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook to find the perfect balance.
- Simmer to Soften: Let the mixture simmer to help the beans and leeks absorb the vegetable stock.
- Garnish with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives add a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the dish hot.
Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek Recipe
- Add Spinach or Kale: Stir in leafy greens for added nutrients and color.
- Sprinkle with Cheese: Top with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan for an extra creamy touch.
- Use White Beans: Swap butter beans with white beans or cannellini beans for a similar flavor.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A bit of lemon juice brightens up the dish.
- Include Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a deeper, umami flavor.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek Leftovers
- On the Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Add a Splash of Stock: If the dish seems dry, add a small amount of vegetable stock while reheating.
- Stir to Avoid Soggy Texture: Stir occasionally to help maintain texture and flavor.
- Serve Hot: For the best taste, serve the reheated dish warm.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
FAQs
Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned in this recipe?
Yes, you can use dried butter beans, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Soak the beans overnight, then simmer until tender before adding to the recipe for the best results.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek dish vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable stock and no animal products. It’s a great plant-based option for a filling and flavorful meal.
What can I use instead of leeks in Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek recipe?
If you don’t have leeks, you can substitute them with onions, shallots, or even green onions. These options will give a similar, mild flavor that complements the butter beans.
How long can I store Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek is a cozy, nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This versatile recipe is perfect for a simple lunch, dinner, or side dish. With minimal ingredients and a hearty taste, it’s a satisfying option for any meal of the week. Enjoy this comforting dish as a delicious addition to your table.
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
Printjamie oliver butter bean and leek
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean and Leek recipe is a simple yet delicious dish featuring the creamy, nutty flavors of butter beans combined with sautéed leeks. This vegetarian-friendly recipe highlights the natural taste of each ingredient, enhanced with basic seasoning.
Ingredients
- 2 large leeks, sliced and cleaned
- 2 cans of butter beans (400g each), drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Slice the leeks into thin rounds, then rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt trapped in the layers.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the leeks and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become slightly golden.
Add the butter beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the leeks and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour in the vegetable stock, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stock to reduce slightly.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a main dish or side.