I’ve always loved cooking, especially those dishes that are easy to prepare and still manage to pack a punch in flavor. One of the standout recipes in my rotation is Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip and Apple Soup. It’s the kind of soup that surprises you in the best possible way: rich, velvety smooth, with just the right balance of sweetness and earthiness.
I first tried this recipe on a chilly autumn afternoon, looking for something that would not only warm me up but also offer a unique twist on the usual soups I’d make. The combination of parsnips and apples caught my attention right away, and I had a feeling this would be a game-changer. Spoiler alert: It was.
So if you’re looking for a hearty yet refreshing soup, this one ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the recipe, shall we?
Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip And Apple Soup Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s approach to cooking is all about simple ingredients and bold flavors. This recipe is no exception. You get the natural sweetness of apples balancing the earthiness of parsnips, and a touch of fresh herbs and spices to elevate the dish. What makes this soup so incredible is how it taps into the comforting, nostalgic flavors of winter vegetables while adding something unexpected.
The first time I made it, I was honestly a little skeptical about the apple. But once I blended everything together, I realized that the combination was not just balanced, but downright genius. The apples add a light, almost refreshing note, while the parsnips provide a hearty depth to the soup.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie’s Parsnip and Apple Soup:
- 1 onion – for a savory base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds richness
- 2 parsnips – peeled and chopped, the star of the show
- 2 apples – peeled, cored, and chopped (I love using a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- 2 cloves garlic – minced, for an aromatic punch
- 1 liter vegetable stock – to create a comforting base
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander – this brings out a subtle warmth
- Fresh thyme – about 4 sprigs, or a teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Optional: a splash of cream – to make it extra creamy (but not necessary)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip And Apple Soup
Making this soup is so simple and doesn’t require a lot of fuss. Here’s how I did it:
- Prep the ingredients: Peel and chop your parsnips and apples. Slice the onion and garlic, and get your stock ready.
- Cook the onions and garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, just to release that beautiful aroma.
- Add the parsnips, apples, and spices: Toss in the parsnips, apples, and ground coriander. Stir everything together to get a nice coat of oil and spices.
- Add the stock: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the parsnips are tender.
- Blend: Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from the heat. Use a hand blender (or transfer to a blender) and blend until smooth. You can leave it slightly chunky if that’s how you like it.
- Season and serve: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and maybe a bit of thyme. If you like it creamier, now’s the time to add a splash of cream.
- Enjoy: Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil, some fresh thyme leaves, and maybe a slice of crusty bread. You’ll be hooked after the first spoonful!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s talk a little bit about what makes this combination of parsnips and apples work so well.
- Parsnips: These root vegetables are in the same family as carrots, but with a slightly sweeter, more nutty flavor. They contain complex carbohydrates, making them naturally filling and great for energy. They also have a good dose of fiber, which helps keep your digestion happy.
- Apples: Apples bring a touch of natural sweetness to the soup, which balances the savory notes of the parsnips. Their acidity also helps cut through the richness of the dish, making it feel lighter than it might otherwise. Apples are full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C-plus, they add that wonderful, fragrant aroma as they cook.
Together, they’re like a perfect culinary duo that balances sweetness and earthiness with just a hint of spice from the coriander.
Expert Tips
- Use different apple varieties: I’ve played around with different apples in this soup. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala work great, but tart ones like Granny Smith give the soup a nice sharp contrast to the sweetness of the parsnips.
- Texture matters: For a smoother soup, blend it well. If you like a bit of texture, don’t blend it all the way-leave some chunks of parsnip and apple for added bite.
- Add a protein boost: If you want to make this soup heartier, you can add some white beans or lentils to the mix. Cook them with the parsnips and apples, then blend. They’ll add creaminess and extra nutrients without affecting the flavor much.
- Spices: While ground coriander is fantastic, you can experiment with other warm spices like cumin or nutmeg for a different twist. Cinnamon also pairs beautifully if you want to lean into the autumn vibe.
Recipe Variations
This soup is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to change it up:
- Roast the parsnips: For an even deeper flavor, try roasting the parsnips before adding them to the soup. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a whole new layer of richness.
- Add a kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding a small piece of fresh ginger or a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the onions.
- Top with something crunchy: Try topping the soup with roasted seeds, croutons, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. The crunch contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.
- Vegan version: Leave out the cream and use vegetable stock and olive oil for a completely vegan-friendly version.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip and Apple Soup has quickly become a go-to recipe for me. It’s simple to make but feels luxurious, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with a seasonal dish. The combination of parsnips and apples may seem unexpected at first, but once you try it, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t thought of it sooner. Plus, it’s super customizable-add your own twists, and it’ll still taste incredible.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip And Apple Soup?
You’ll need parsnips, apples, onion, vegetable stock, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip And Apple Soup Vegan?
Yes, simply use vegetable stock and omit any dairy or cream for a fully vegan version.
How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Parsnip And Apple Soup?
It typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, depending on how finely you chop the ingredients.