A few years ago, I came across a Jamie Oliver recipe that seemed simple but immediately caught my attention. It was his Butter Bean Mash. At first, I thought, “How different can it be from regular mashed potatoes”? But after trying it, I was hooked. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a great alternative when you want something a little lighter but still comforting.
What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s perfect as a side dish for almost any meal-whether you’re having roast chicken, grilled fish, or even a veggie-packed stir fry. Plus, it’s so easy to make!
So if you’re looking for something to impress at dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, this butter bean mash is your new go-to.
Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash Recipe
I first found Jamie’s Butter Bean Mash recipe in one of his cookbooks. What stood out to me was how he managed to turn a few simple ingredients into something that felt indulgent. His technique wasn’t complicated, but the result was surprisingly rich and satisfying.
Here’s the thing: butter beans themselves are creamy and buttery, so when mashed, they have this beautiful smooth texture. Combine them with olive oil, garlic, and a bit of seasoning, and you get a side dish that’s as comforting as mashed potatoes but with a unique twist.
Ingredients Needed
One of the best things about this recipe is how minimal the ingredients are. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter beans (canned or dried) – The star of the dish! If you’re using dried, you’ll need to soak and cook them first. But canned beans are perfectly fine and make this recipe quick and easy.
- Olive oil – Adds richness and depth. You’ll want to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic – A couple of cloves give the mash a subtle, fragrant kick.
- Lemon juice – Just a dash to brighten up the creamy richness of the butter beans.
- Fresh herbs (optional) – Rosemary or thyme work beautifully here, but feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, of course. These simple seasonings are key in bringing everything together.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash
Making this mash is as easy as it gets. Here’s how I usually do it:
- Cook the Butter Beans: If you’re using dried beans, make sure they’re properly soaked (overnight is best). Then cook them until tender, which usually takes about 45 minutes. If you’re using canned beans, just drain and rinse them.
- Sauté Garlic: In a small pan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Mash the Beans: In a large bowl or pot, add the butter beans. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them up to your desired consistency. I like mine a bit chunky, but you can go as smooth as you prefer.
- Combine Everything: Pour the garlic and oil mixture into the mashed beans. Add a little salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. If you’re feeling fancy, you can stir in some fresh herbs at this point.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes it needs a little more salt or a touch more lemon.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s dive into the science behind a couple of key ingredients in this recipe:
- Butter Beans: These beans are naturally creamy due to their high starch content. When mashed, they create a rich and velvety texture that mimics the mouthfeel of potatoes but with added protein and fiber.
- Olive Oil: The oil here isn’t just for richness-it helps emulsify the mash, giving it that smooth and cohesive texture. Plus, olive oil contains healthy fats that are good for heart health.
- Garlic: When you sauté garlic, the natural sugars break down and caramelize, releasing those wonderful umami flavors. This adds depth to the mash without overpowering it.
Expert Tips
When making this recipe, a few simple tweaks can elevate it:
- Use freshly cooked beans: While canned butter beans are super convenient, cooking your own beans from dried gives you a firmer texture and richer flavor.
- Infuse your oil: For an extra flavor boost, try infusing your olive oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme before sautéing the garlic. This adds another layer of complexity to the dish.
- Add some dairy: If you want to make the mash even creamier, feel free to stir in a bit of butter or a splash of cream. It will take the mash to a whole new level of richness.
- Make it herby: If you’re a fan of herbs, add a bit of fresh basil or parsley to the mash right before serving. It brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
Recipe Variations
One of the reasons this recipe is so great is that you can adapt it to your taste:
- Vegan Version: The basic recipe is already vegan. Just keep the olive oil, garlic, and beans. If you’re craving some extra richness, you could swap the olive oil for vegan butter.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, throw in a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the garlic, or add a chopped fresh chili into the mash.
- Cheesy Butter Bean Mash: Stir in some grated Parmesan or your favorite hard cheese for a richer, savory flavor. You could also try feta for a tangy twist.
- Herb Variations: Switch up the herbs to match the season or your main dish. Fresh mint, dill, or even a little sage could add interesting notes.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash is one of those recipes that never gets old. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to whatever you have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some extra beans into your diet without feeling like you’re eating something ’healthy’ (it tastes just like comfort food!).
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as a side to your favorite grilled meat, it’s bound to impress. And if you make a big batch, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash?
The main ingredients are butter beans, garlic, olive oil, and a bit of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Can I Use Canned Butter Beans For Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash?
Yes, canned butter beans work perfectly and save you time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well.
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Butter Bean Mash Extra Creamy?
To get it super creamy, mash the beans thoroughly and add a good amount of olive oil or a little butter if you prefer.