Mary Berry Curried Beetroot Soup Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your soup game, you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s curried beetroot soup recipe!

Not only does it combine the earthy sweetness of beetroot with the warm, fragrant spices of curry, but it’s also a beautiful, vibrant dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Mary Berry, known for her simple yet sophisticated approach to cooking, gives you a recipe that’s easy to follow and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even as a starter for a more festive meal. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in while treating your taste buds to something a little different!

Mary Berry Curried Beetroot Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup, a rich, flavorful, and vibrant dish, you’ll need a selection of carefully chosen ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in the balance of earthy sweetness from the beetroots combined with the aromatic spices of curry, creating a comforting yet exotic experience for your tastebuds.

1. Beetroot – The star of the dish, beetroots provide a deep, earthy sweetness and a striking color. You’ll need around 1-2 medium-sized beetroots, fresh and raw, which will be peeled, chopped, and roasted or boiled to extract their natural flavors.

2. Onion – A small onion or a shallot adds a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the beets. It should be finely chopped to ensure it softens perfectly while cooking.

3. Garlic – A couple of garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped, bring a fragrant depth to the soup, complementing the curry spices beautifully.

4. Curry Powder – A tablespoon of curry powder will bring the warmth and complexity that gives the soup its signature curried flavor. You can use a mild or medium blend depending on your heat tolerance.

5. Vegetable Stock – A rich vegetable stock (around 750 ml) serves as the base liquid for the soup. The stock enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the beets. You can also use chicken stock if you prefer, but vegetable stock keeps it light and vegetarian.

6. Olive Oil – A small amount of olive oil, for sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds a smooth richness and helps in cooking the aromatics evenly.

7. Lemon Juice – A dash of lemon juice will provide acidity to balance the earthiness of the beets and the spices. It can also enhance the color, giving it a brighter, more vibrant finish.

8. Salt and Pepper – Season to taste. Salt will enhance all the flavors, while pepper adds a subtle warmth that complements the curry powder.

9. Fresh Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional) – For a creamy finish, you can drizzle in a little fresh cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt. It adds a silky texture and mellows out the spiciness.

Equipment Needed

The equipment for making Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is fairly simple, but having the right tools will help you execute the recipe with ease.

1. Large Pot – A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic and for simmering the soup. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the soup from burning.

2. Chopping Board and Knife – A sharp knife and a sturdy chopping board are essential for finely chopping the onions, garlic, and beetroots. Be careful with beets, as they can stain, so you may want to use a cutting board that’s easy to clean.

3. Peeler – A vegetable peeler will help you remove the skin of the beetroots efficiently, leaving the tender, sweet flesh intact.

4. Blender or Hand Blender – To achieve a smooth, velvety consistency, you’ll need a blender or an immersion (hand) blender. The immersion blender is particularly useful as you can blend the soup directly in the pot, which saves time and reduces cleanup.

5. Measuring Spoons and Cups – For accuracy in measuring the curry powder, lemon juice, and other ingredients, having a set of measuring spoons and cups will help you stay on track.

6. Ladle – A ladle is useful for transferring the soup into bowls without making a mess, especially when serving it hot.

7. Soup Bowls – A set of deep, wide soup bowls is perfect for presenting your curried beetroot soup. A bowl with a wide rim will allow you to appreciate the vibrant color of the soup.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup

Making Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a simple, satisfying process, and the result is a velvety, flavorful bowl of soup that’s sure to impress.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling the beetroots with a vegetable peeler, then chop them into small chunks. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.

2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking them gently until softened and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Curry Powder: Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute. The heat will bring out the depth of the spices, creating a fragrant base for the soup.

4. Add the Beetroots and Stock: Add the chopped beetroots to the pot, stirring them to coat them in the curry-spiced oil. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer: Once the soup has come to a boil, lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the beetroots are tender. You can test them by piercing a piece with a fork – if it goes through easily, the beets are done.

6. Blend the Soup: Once the beets are cooked, use a blender or immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. You can add a little more stock if it’s too thick or adjust it to your desired consistency.

7. Finish with Lemon and Cream: Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. If you’d like a richer texture, swirl in a spoonful of fresh cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

8. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a dollop of cream or yogurt if desired, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

1. Roast the Beets for Extra Flavor: If you want a deeper, caramelized flavor, you can roast the beetroots instead of boiling them. Wrap them in foil and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes to an hour, until tender. This method brings out the natural sweetness of the beets and adds complexity to the flavor.

2. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the curry powder. Conversely, if you want a milder soup, use a gentle curry powder blend or skip any additional chili.

3. Use Fresh Beets for Optimal Texture: While pre-cooked, canned beets are convenient, fresh beets offer a far superior texture and flavor. Take the time to use fresh beets for a richer, more vibrant soup.

4. Make It Vegan: To make the soup vegan, simply omit the cream or yogurt and use coconut milk as a substitute. Coconut milk will complement the curry flavors and provide a luscious, creamy texture without the dairy.

5. Garnishing Options: Garnish your soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or top with toasted nuts, such as cashews or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and texture.

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a delightful fusion of earthy, sweet beets and aromatic curry spices. This soup is not only visually stunning with its rich, ruby-red hue, but it also offers a warming, comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for cooler days.

With its simple ingredients, easy-to-follow process, and the flexibility to adjust to your personal preferences, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party or enjoying it as a cozy meal for one, it’s a dish that celebrates the power of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The final result is a bowl of nourishment that’s as satisfying as it is vibrant-truly the essence of comfort food with a touch of spice.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a delightful combination of earthy beetroot and aromatic spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. While the base recipe itself is fantastic, there are numerous ways to add your own twist and experiment with flavors. Here are a few easy variations that can elevate the dish or cater to different tastes:

1. Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess

   Coconut milk can give the soup a silky, velvety texture and a mild sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the beetroot. Simply substitute some of the vegetable stock with coconut milk or add a splash at the end of cooking for an extra layer of flavor. This variation brings a more tropical element to the dish and can soften the heat from the curry powder.

2. Spice It Up with Fresh Chilies

   If you prefer a bit more heat, fresh chilies can be added alongside the curry powder. Red or green chilies work well, but you could also use a touch of chili flakes if you want to control the spice level. Be mindful of the amount you add, as it can quickly become overpowering, but a small amount will impart a lovely heat that balances the sweetness of the beetroot.

3. Incorporate Roasted Garlic

   Roasting garlic enhances its flavor, giving it a sweet and mellow depth. By incorporating roasted garlic into the soup, you can introduce a different level of savory complexity.

   The combination of garlic and curry is unbeatable and can complement the earthy taste of the beetroot. Simply roast the garlic in the oven before adding it to the pot for the last few minutes of cooking.

4. Add a Dollop of Yogurt or Sour Cream

   Topping your curried beetroot soup with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream not only adds a creamy finish but also a tangy contrast to the curry’s spices. For a touch of luxury, you can also use crème fraîche or labneh, which have a thicker consistency and richer taste.

5. Try a Different Root Vegetable

   While beetroot is the star of the show, you can play around with other root vegetables to complement or replace it. For example, adding sweet potatoes or carrots can bring a slightly sweeter, richer flavor to the soup. Mixing beets with carrots will create a more balanced sweetness and color contrast, making it visually stunning as well as delicious.

6. Incorporate Fresh Herbs

   Fresh herbs can bring a burst of freshness to the soup. Cilantro (coriander) is an excellent choice, providing a citrusy note that brightens the curry flavor. You could also use mint for a refreshing twist or even a little parsley for a milder, earthy herb flavor.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover Curried Beetroot Soup can be a real treat, but it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some best practices to help you make the most of your leftovers:

1. Cool Before Storing

   Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it. Putting hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside the fridge, potentially leading to bacterial growth.

   It also causes condensation, which could alter the texture of your soup. Cooling it first helps maintain the quality.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   Store the soup in airtight containers to preserve its freshness. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are a great option, as they won’t absorb any odors and are easy to clean. If you’re planning to store the soup for longer periods, consider freezing it (more on that in the next point).

3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, freezing the soup is an excellent option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little room for expansion.

   Be sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of how long the soup has been stored. Frozen beetroot soup can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

4. Reheat Carefully

   When reheating leftover soup, do so slowly over medium heat to avoid splitting or curdling the cream or coconut milk in the soup. Stir it frequently to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.

5. Avoid Storing with Dairy Toppings

   If you plan on adding dairy toppings like yogurt, cream, or sour cream, store them separately from the soup. Dairy can separate or curdle when stored in the soup, and it might alter the texture when reheated. Just add these toppings fresh when serving the soup the second time around.

What Goes Well With Curried Beetroot Soup

Curried Beetroot Soup is rich, flavorful, and hearty, so pairing it with complementary sides can turn it into a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for what goes well with the soup:

1. Crusty Bread or Warm Naan

   A thick slice of crusty bread or a piece of warm naan is perfect for dipping into the soup. The slight crunch of the bread contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, velvety texture of the soup, making each bite satisfying. For an added twist, toast the bread and rub a garlic clove over it before serving.

2. Simple Green Salad

   To balance the richness of the soup, serve it with a fresh, light green salad. Opt for a salad with peppery arugula, crisp lettuce, and a citrusy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will complement the deep flavors of the beetroot soup and cleanse your palate between spoonfuls.

3. Roasted Vegetables

   Pair the soup with roasted root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, providing a delicious contrast to the spiced beetroot soup. You could even add a sprinkle of cumin or coriander to echo the spices in the soup.

4. Cheese

   A sharp cheese, like a crumbly goat cheese or tangy feta, can add a lovely contrast to the smoothness of the soup. Sprinkle the cheese over the soup just before serving, or serve it on the side with some crackers for an additional textural element.

5. Grilled or Roasted Chicken

   For a more substantial meal, pairing the soup with grilled or roasted chicken can add some protein and turn the dish into a hearty dinner. The chicken’s mild flavor pairs beautifully with the rich, spiced soup, and you can even serve it with a light drizzle of olive oil and lemon to keep things fresh.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a wonderfully versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you choose to add coconut milk for a creamy texture, boost the spice level with fresh chilies, or enhance the flavor with roasted garlic, the options are endless for tailoring this soup to your liking.

It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish, and knowing the best practices for storing leftovers will ensure you can enjoy the soup for several days or even weeks. By pairing it with crusty bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables, you can turn it into a satisfying and complete meal. With its vibrant color and complex flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup?

The ingredients for Mary Berry’s curried beetroot soup typically include fresh beetroot, onion, garlic, curry powder, vegetable stock, and a bit of cream or yogurt for a smooth, creamy finish. You’ll also need olive oil for cooking and seasoning with salt and pepper.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup?

The soup takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes time for sautéing the onions and garlic, simmering the beetroot, and blending the soup to a smooth consistency.

Can I Use Pre-cooked Beetroot For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked beetroot to save time. Just make sure to chop it into smaller pieces before adding it to the soup to ensure an even blend.

What Type Of Curry Powder Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup?

Mary Berry’s recipe typically uses mild curry powder, which gives the soup a subtle spice. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can opt for a hotter curry powder or add some chili flakes.

Can I Make This Soup Vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by substituting the cream or yogurt with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk, almond yogurt, or any other dairy-free option.

How Do I Store Leftover Curried Beetroot Soup?

Leftover curried beetroot soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let the soup cool completely before storing.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To This Soup For Added Flavor?

Yes, you can experiment with adding other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. These additions can complement the earthy flavor of the beetroot while adding extra richness to the soup.

How Can I Adjust The Consistency Of The Soup?

If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more vegetable stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. For a thicker soup, blend it for a bit longer or reduce the liquid while simmering.

Is Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup Spicy?

The soup is mildly spiced, as it uses mild curry powder. However, if you enjoy more heat, you can add extra chili powder or fresh chilies to suit your taste.

Can I Serve Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup With Toppings?

Yes, you can garnish the soup with various toppings such as a dollop of cream or yogurt, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for added texture and flavor.