Gazpacho, the quintessential Spanish cold soup, is the perfect summer refreshment. Jamie Oliver, renowned for his fresh and flavorful cooking, offers a version that's both simple and incredibly delicious. This recipe focuses on the vibrant taste of ripe, seasonal ingredients, making it a truly satisfying and healthy meal. We'll explore the key ingredients, offer variations, and even address some frequently asked questions about this iconic dish.
What are the main ingredients in Jamie Oliver's Gazpacho?
The beauty of Jamie Oliver's gazpacho lies in its simplicity. The foundation consists of ripe, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. These are then blended with good quality olive oil, bread (for a thicker consistency), and seasoned with sherry vinegar, salt, and pepper. Sometimes, he adds a touch of garlic for extra depth of flavor. The key is to use the best quality ingredients you can find—the brighter the flavors, the better the gazpacho.
How to make Jamie Oliver’s gazpacho – a step-by-step guide
While specific measurements can vary depending on personal preference and the size of your batch, the general process remains consistent. Here's a simplified guide based on Jamie Oliver's approach:
- Prep the vegetables: Wash and roughly chop 1 kg ripe tomatoes, 1 cucumber, 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, and 1/2 a red onion.
- Soak the bread: Soak a couple of slices of crusty bread in cold water for about 10 minutes, then squeeze out the excess water. This helps to thicken the soup.
- Blend it all: Combine the vegetables, soaked bread, 100ml extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar, salt and freshly ground black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more vinegar for acidity, salt for saltiness, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with finely diced cucumber, bell pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
This basic recipe can be easily adapted to your liking. Feel free to experiment with adding other ingredients such as fresh herbs (basil, parsley), a pinch of smoked paprika, or even a few drops of Tabasco for a spicier kick.
What type of bread is best for Jamie Oliver's Gazpacho?
While Jamie Oliver doesn't specify a particular bread type, a crusty bread, like a day-old baguette or sourdough, works best. The crust adds a subtle texture and helps to absorb some of the liquid, leading to a richer, thicker soup. Avoid using overly soft or sweet bread, as these might alter the flavor profile.
Can you make gazpacho without bread?
Yes, absolutely! Many variations of gazpacho omit the bread altogether. This results in a smoother, lighter soup. If you choose to leave out the bread, you might want to add a little more olive oil for richness and creaminess.
What kind of tomatoes should I use for gazpacho?
Ripe, flavorful tomatoes are crucial for a delicious gazpacho. Heirloom tomatoes, with their intense flavor and varying colors, are a fantastic choice. However, any good quality, ripe tomatoes will work. Avoid using green or unripe tomatoes, as they will impart a sour taste.
Is gazpacho healthy?
Gazpacho is incredibly healthy! It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the abundance of fresh vegetables. It's low in calories, fat, and sodium, making it a perfect choice for a light and nutritious meal, especially during the warmer months.
How long does gazpacho last?
Gazpacho can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's best to consume it within 2 days.
This detailed guide should provide you with all the information needed to make a delicious Jamie Oliver-inspired Gazpacho. Remember to adjust the recipe to your personal taste and enjoy this refreshing summer classic!
