Name: Jamie Oliver Butter Bean Mash
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cans (400g each) butter beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a touch of brightness); Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish

Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash is a simple, creamy, and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for adding a Mediterranean twist to your meals. With the smooth texture of butter beans and subtle flavors of garlic and olive oil, this mash is a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. It’s light, full of fiber, and incredibly versatile.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and ready in minutes.
Healthy and High in Fiber: Butter beans are packed with fiber and protein.

Deliciously Creamy: Achieves a smooth, rich texture with no dairy.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with meats, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Mediterranean Flavors: A hint of garlic and olive oil adds depth to the mash.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash?

Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash is a creamy, healthy alternative to mashed potatoes, made by blending butter beans with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings. This simple yet flavorful dish is ideal as a side for various main courses, adding a smooth texture and mild, nutty taste.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

2 cans (400g each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a touch of brightness)

Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Mash the Butter Beans

In a large bowl, add the drained butter beans. Using a fork, potato masher, or immersion blender, start mashing the beans until you reach a smooth or slightly chunky consistency, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Olive Oil

Pour the sautéed garlic and remaining olive oil into the mashed beans. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.

Step 4: Season and Adjust

Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using) to taste. Stir well, adjusting the seasoning as desired.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the butter bean mash to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve warm as a side dish.

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What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

Grilled Chicken: The creamy mash pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken.
Seared Fish: Complements the mild flavors of white fish like cod or halibut.

Roasted Vegetables: A great addition alongside roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Lamb Chops: The rich flavor of lamb balances nicely with the light mash.
Mediterranean Salad: Add a fresh, crisp salad to complete the meal.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

Use an Immersion Blender for Extra Creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend the beans with an immersion blender.
Season Generously: Butter beans have a mild flavor, so season well with salt, pepper, and lemon juice for brightness.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley add depth to the dish.

Add Extra Olive Oil for Richness: Drizzle additional olive oil for a richer, more indulgent mash.
Serve Warm: This mash tastes best when served warm, straight from the pan.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

Garlic and Herb Butter Bean Mash: Add extra garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

Spicy Butter Bean Mash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Lemon-Parsley Mash: Stir in extra lemon juice and fresh parsley for a zesty twist.
Creamy Butter Bean Mash with Yogurt: Mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy texture.

Butter Bean and Spinach Mash: Fold in a handful of sautéed spinach for added color and nutrients.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash

Store leftover mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore the creamy texture.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 kcal

Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I make butter bean mash without a blender?

Yes, you can make butter bean mash without a blender by using a potato masher or fork. For a smoother texture, try mashing the beans while they are warm, which makes them easier to break down.

How do I make butter bean mash extra creamy?

To make butter bean mash extra creamy, add more olive oil or a splash of vegetable or chicken broth while mashing. You can also use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother consistency.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned for this mash?

Yes, you can use dried butter beans, but they need to be soaked overnight and cooked until tender before mashing. This will add time to the preparation, but the result will still be delicious.

How long does butter bean mash last in the fridge?

Butter bean mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little olive oil or water to keep it creamy.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash is a light, flavorful side that’s perfect for any meal. With its smooth, creamy texture and mild taste, this dish is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. Serve it with your favorite protein or vegetables, and enjoy a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired twist on a classic mash.

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