Yotam Ottolenghi, a renowned chef whose cooking is celebrated for its bold, vibrant flavors and unexpected pairings, has made waves in kitchens worldwide. His approach to food celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients, and his recipes often bridge cultural influences, combining Middle Eastern and Mediterranean elements. Ottolenghi’s soups are a beautiful reflection of his culinary philosophy-rich, flavorful, and satisfying. They are never just a bowl of broth but a tapestry of textures, colors, and vibrant tastes.
Today, I’ll be diving into one of his signature soup recipes that exemplifies everything we love about Ottolenghi’s cooking. This soup will be the perfect addition to your kitchen repertoire, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner just starting out.
Ottolenghi Soup Recipe
This particular Ottolenghi-inspired soup is a fantastic blend of vegetables, herbs, and spices. It embodies the chef’s love for combining fresh produce with deep, earthy flavors. Whether you’re craving something light yet filling, or you need a comforting bowl to warm up a chilly evening, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Let’s walk through the recipe so you can recreate it right at home. Ready? Grab your apron, and let’s dive in!
Ingredients Needed
For this Ottolenghi soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients, spices, and a touch of something rich to tie it all together. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:
- Olive oil – A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is key here. It adds richness to the soup and enhances the overall flavor.
- Onion – A finely chopped onion for a savory base, bringing sweetness and depth.
- Garlic – Garlic is one of Ottolenghi’s go-to ingredients for layering flavors. It’ll add a fragrant kick to the soup.
- Carrots – Carrots offer a natural sweetness and texture to balance out the spices.
- Celery – Celery will provide a lovely subtle earthiness, giving the soup complexity.
- Zucchini – The zucchini adds a fresh, tender bite while soaking up all the wonderful flavors.
- Tomatoes – A mix of canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes will add acidity and umami, essential for brightening the soup.
- Spices – Cumin, coriander, and turmeric are Ottolenghi’s spices of choice, creating a fragrant, warm base. Don’t skip the cumin; it gives the soup that distinct, smoky undertone.
- Lemon zest – A hint of lemon zest will brighten up the dish and add a citrusy contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Vegetable broth – A rich vegetable broth will bring the soup together and give it a well-rounded base. You can also use chicken broth if preferred.
- Fresh herbs – Parsley, cilantro, or even dill, depending on your preference, will bring a fresh burst of flavor at the end.
- Salt & pepper – Essential to bring all the flavors together, so taste and season as you go.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious, Ottolenghi-inspired soup that’s sure to become a household favorite.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, around 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add The Vegetables
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery, and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes. This helps build the flavor foundation for the soup.
- Add the zucchini and cook for 2 more minutes. The zucchini doesn’t need much time; it just needs to soften slightly.
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Spice It Up
- Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This allows the spices to bloom and release their full flavor.
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Tomatoes And Broth
- Stir in the tomatoes (either fresh or canned) and let them cook down for 5-7 minutes, so their natural juices start to release.
- Add the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Finishing Touches
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked, add the lemon zest for a fresh lift and stir in any fresh herbs you’ve chosen.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
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Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. This step is optional but adds a creamy texture that makes the soup even more comforting.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a handful of fresh herbs. A drizzle of olive oil over the top adds richness and a touch of gloss.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the key ingredients that make this Ottolenghi soup special.
- Cumin: One of the most important spices in this soup, cumin provides an earthy, slightly smoky flavor. It’s also known for its ability to add warmth without overwhelming the dish. Cumin is often used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines, giving it that unmistakable Ottolenghi touch.
- Turmeric: This vibrant golden root not only adds color to the soup but also an aromatic warmth that complements the cumin. Turmeric is also famed for its anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup a healthy comfort food option.
- Zucchini: While zucchini may seem like a simple vegetable, it’s surprisingly effective in this soup. Its mild flavor allows it to take on the spices and broth, contributing a subtle texture without stealing the show.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are key to Ottolenghi’s cooking. Whether parsley or cilantro, the herbs add an extra layer of freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the soup.
Expert Tips
To elevate your soup-making game, here are some expert tips:
- Layer the Flavors: Ottolenghi often speaks about “layering” flavors, which means adding ingredients at different stages of cooking. Sauté your onions first to bring out their sweetness, toast the spices for depth, and finish with fresh herbs for brightness.
- Add a Protein: If you’re looking to make this soup heartier, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. Ottolenghi often pairs legumes with vegetable soups, adding both protein and texture.
- Use Good Broth: The broth is the base of your soup. If possible, opt for homemade vegetable broth, as it will be much richer in flavor than store-bought. If using store-bought, choose one that’s low-sodium and high-quality.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend the soup a bit more. If you like it thinner, simply add more broth until you reach the perfect texture.
- Finishing Touches: A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the spices beautifully. A few chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce will add heat if you like a little spice.
Recipe Variations
This soup recipe is highly adaptable to whatever you have in your kitchen or what’s in season. Here are some variations you can try:
- Roast the Vegetables: Instead of sautéing the vegetables, try roasting them first. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars, adding extra depth and sweetness.
- Swap the Zucchini: If zucchini isn’t in season, try adding butternut squash or sweet potato for a similar texture but with a sweeter, richer flavor.
- Add Greens: Toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an added nutritional boost. These will wilt right into the soup and make it even more hearty.
- Spice it Up: If you love spice, try adding harissa or chili paste during the cooking process. This will give the soup a beautiful, slow-building heat that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Final Words
Ottolenghi’s soup recipe is the epitome of what great cooking is all about: a balance of flavors, a harmony of textures, and an invitation to experiment. What makes his soups stand out is their ability to be both simple and complex at the same time. They celebrate the ingredients and let them shine, while also building a depth that makes each spoonful feel satisfying.
FAQs
What Are Some Popular Ottolenghi Soup Recipes?
Some of the most popular Ottolenghi soup recipes include ’Sweet Potato, Red Lentil, and Coconut Soup,’ “Spiced Tomato Soup with Poached Eggs”, “Chickpea Soup with Garlic and Cumin”, and “Mushroom and Barley Soup”. Each recipe incorporates Ottolenghi’s signature blend of Middle Eastern spices and fresh ingredients.
Are Ottolenghi Soup Recipes Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Many of Ottolenghi’s soup recipes are vegetarian or vegan, as they focus on fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains. However, some recipes may include dairy or meat, so it’s important to check individual recipes if you’re looking for plant-based options.
What Makes Ottolenghi Soups Unique?
Ottolenghi soups are unique because they often feature bold, aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and sumac, which are inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. The use of fresh herbs, citrus, and a variety of textures also sets these soups apart, offering a rich and layered flavor profile.
Can I Make Ottolenghi Soups Ahead Of Time?
Yes, many Ottolenghi soups can be made ahead of time and actually improve in flavor as they sit. Most soups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve the integrity of the ingredients.
What Ingredients Are Commonly Used In Ottolenghi Soup Recipes?
Common ingredients in Ottolenghi soup recipes include lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, onions, garlic, and a variety of fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley. Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon are frequently used to add depth and warmth.
How Long Does It Take To Make An Ottolenghi Soup?
The time to make an Ottolenghi soup varies depending on the recipe, but most soups can be prepared in 30 to 60 minutes. Some more complex soups, like those with long-simmering broths, may take up to 90 minutes or more.
Can I Customize Ottolenghi Soup Recipes To Suit My Dietary Preferences?
Yes, Ottolenghi soup recipes are highly customizable. You can adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs by substituting legumes, grains, or vegetables, and substituting dairy with plant-based alternatives. The flexibility of these recipes allows for easy modifications for gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb diets.
Do Ottolenghi Soup Recipes Require Special Ingredients?
While Ottolenghi soups incorporate a range of Middle Eastern spices and herbs, many of the ingredients can be found at local grocery stores or specialty food markets. Ingredients like sumac, pomegranate molasses, or za’atar may require a visit to a specialty store or an online order.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes To Serve With Ottolenghi Soups?
Ottolenghi soups pair well with fresh, crusty bread, such as sourdough or challah. A simple salad with a lemony dressing or roasted vegetables complements the bold flavors of the soup. You could also serve the soup with a dollop of yogurt or tahini for added richness.
Can I Make Ottolenghi Soups In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, many Ottolenghi soup recipes can be adapted for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For slow cooking, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the pressure cooking setting for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the ingredients, and adjust as needed.