Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a vibrant, hearty dish that combines the earthiness of roasted beets with the warm, aromatic spices of curry. Known for her classic British culinary prowess, Mary Berry takes a traditionally humble vegetable and elevates it into a comforting yet exotic soup. The combination of beets and curry powder might sound unusual to some, but it works perfectly-giving the soup a balance of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors. The beets, with their natural sweetness, are complemented by the slightly spicy kick from the curry powder, while the creamy texture of the soup creates a smooth, satisfying base. It’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings or whenever you want something both nourishing and flavorful.

Berry’s recipe often includes a balance of rich, savory ingredients like onions and garlic, while the curry powder provides depth. The addition of cream or yogurt at the end makes the soup creamy and luxurious, adding a smooth richness that beautifully offsets the deep, earthy notes of the beets. This soup is not only delicious, but it’s also a vibrant splash of color in any meal, making it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. Below are the essential ingredients you’ll need to prepare this soup:

1. Beetroot – Fresh, raw beets are the key ingredient in this recipe. They’re packed with nutrients, including antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, and their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the soup. Typically, the recipe calls for about 3-4 medium-sized beets.
2. Onion – A couple of medium onions are essential for building the savory base of the soup. Onions bring a mild sweetness and depth, creating a solid foundation for the flavors to build upon.
3. Garlic – A few cloves of garlic add that aromatic, savory bite. Garlic pairs beautifully with curry powder, creating a harmonious backdrop for the spicier elements of the soup.
4. Carrot – Carrots are often included to add a bit of sweetness and extra body to the soup. They also contribute to the rich, vibrant color of the dish.
5. Vegetable Stock – A good-quality vegetable stock is vital for bringing the soup together and enhancing the flavor profile. You could also use chicken stock for a non-vegetarian version, but vegetable stock offers a neutral backdrop to let the beets shine.
6. Curry Powder – This is where the magic happens. Curry powder brings the spice and warmth that give the soup its unique character. Mary Berry uses a mild curry powder to ensure that the flavors are balanced, but if you prefer a spicier kick, you can adjust the amount or opt for a hotter curry blend.
7. Olive Oil – A bit of olive oil is used to sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots before blending the soup. This helps release the flavors and creates a lovely aromatic base.
8. Cream or Yogurt – To finish off the soup, a swirl of cream or a dollop of yogurt adds richness and helps mellow the spiciness. This makes the soup smooth and creamy, adding a touch of luxury to the dish.
9. Salt and Pepper – Simple seasonings like salt and black pepper are essential to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required to make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is fairly standard and accessible, ensuring that you don’t need anything too specialized. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Saucepan or Stockpot – A large pot is essential for cooking the vegetables and simmering the soup base. It should have enough capacity to comfortably hold all the ingredients without overflowing.
2. Sharp Knife and Chopping Board – These will be needed for chopping the beets, carrots, onions, and garlic. Since beets can stain, it’s a good idea to use a cutting board that you don’t mind getting a little pink!
3. Vegetable Peeler – A vegetable peeler will help you remove the skins from the beets and carrots with ease.
4. Blender or Immersion Blender – After cooking the soup, you’ll need a blender to purée the ingredients into a smooth consistency. An immersion blender is ideal if you want to blend directly in the pot, reducing cleanup.
5. Measuring Spoons and Cups – For measuring out ingredients like curry powder, stock, and seasonings.
6. Ladle – This is useful for serving the soup, especially if you want to pour it into individual bowls neatly.
7. Soup Bowls – Finally, have some deep bowls ready for serving the soup. The bold color of this soup makes it all the more appetizing when presented in a bright bowl.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup

Making Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a straightforward process that allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this comforting soup:

1. Prepare the Vegetables – Start by peeling and chopping the beets, carrots, and onions. Dice the beets into small chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the onions and carrots into medium-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic – In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
3. Add the Carrots and Curry Powder – Toss the diced carrots into the pan and stir in the curry powder. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma and coat the vegetables.
4. Cook the Beets – Now, add the chopped beets to the pot and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Stock – Pour in the vegetable stock, making sure the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beets and carrots are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Blend the Soup – Once the vegetables are soft, remove the soup from the heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot, or transfer the mixture in batches to a stand blender. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy.
7. Finish the Soup – Once blended, return the soup to the heat and stir in the cream or yogurt to add richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little more stock or water at this stage.
8. Serve – Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, add a swirl of extra cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for garnish. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Tips And Tricks

• Roasting the Beets – If you have time and want an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the beets instead of boiling them. Roasting concentrates their natural sweetness and adds a subtle smokiness. Simply wrap the beets in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
• Adjusting the Spice – If you like your soup with more heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the curry powder. Alternatively, for a milder soup, you can reduce the curry powder or use a mild variety.
• Make it Vegan – For a vegan version, swap the cream or yogurt for coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. This will also bring a lovely, creamy texture to the soup.
• Use Pre-cooked Beets – To save time, you can use pre-cooked or canned beets. Just make sure they are drained and diced before adding them to the soup base.
• Blending Tip – If you want your soup extra smooth, pass it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. This removes any remaining bits of beetroot and ensures a silky-smooth texture.

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when paired thoughtfully, can create a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. The soup is warming, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or preparing a light lunch, this soup is sure to impress with its vibrant color, depth of flavor, and versatility. With its ease of preparation and the ability to adapt to personal tastes (whether by adjusting the level of spice or choosing different creamy additions), this recipe is one that will find its way into regular rotation in your kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a vibrant and comforting dish, perfect for warming up on cooler days. While the original recipe is already a fantastic balance of earthy beetroot and aromatic curry spices, you can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Here are some creative and easy variations:

1. Swap the Vegetables:

If you want to change the flavor profile or just get more variety in your diet, consider swapping the beetroot with other root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. These vegetables pair beautifully with curry and offer their own unique sweetness and texture. Sweet potatoes, for example, bring a creamy texture when pureed, making the soup even more luscious.

2. Spice It Up or Tone It Down:

Mary Berry’s recipe likely uses a mild curry powder, but you can adjust the level of heat to suit your palate. For a spicier kick, try adding a little chili powder, ground ginger, or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of curry powder or use a sweet, aromatic variety like turmeric or garam masala for a more subtle warmth.

3. Add Coconut Milk or Cream:

For a richer, creamier texture, add a can of full-fat coconut milk or a splash of double cream. Coconut milk complements the earthiness of the beetroot and curry powder beautifully, creating a velvety-smooth soup. If you’re looking to keep it dairy-free, coconut milk is a great alternative that will keep the soup rich and satisfying.

4. Fresh Herbs and Garnishes:

Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of this soup with minimal effort. Cilantro (coriander) is a natural partner to curry, and adding a handful of chopped leaves just before serving brings a burst of freshness. For extra texture, consider garnishing with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, or a dollop of tangy yogurt. You could also sprinkle some toasted cumin seeds for an added depth of flavor.

5. Roasted Beetroot Variation:

Instead of cooking the beetroot in the soup, why not roast it for a caramelized, slightly smoky flavor? Roasting the beetroot brings out its natural sweetness and adds an additional layer of complexity to the soup. Simply toss the beetroot in olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes, then add to your soup base.

6. Add Lentils or Beans for Protein:

To make your soup more hearty, throw in some red lentils or a can of chickpeas. Red lentils cook quickly and will break down into the soup, making it even more filling. Chickpeas, on the other hand, will add some bite and texture, creating a heartier, more substantial dish.

7. Infuse the Broth:

Instead of using plain vegetable stock, try infusing the broth with more flavors. You can add a star anise or a cinnamon stick to the broth as it simmers, lending a warm, aromatic base to the soup. These subtle notes will complement the curry spices beautifully and add a little intrigue to the dish.

These easy variations ensure you can keep enjoying Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup while adapting it to different seasons, tastes, or dietary preferences!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup (which is always a good problem to have!), it’s important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture.

1. Storing in the Fridge:

Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly, the soup will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The beetroot can sometimes stain the container, so consider using a glass one for easy cleaning. The soup’s flavor may actually deepen and develop more over the next few days as the spices continue to meld.

2. Freezing for Later:

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup freezes exceptionally well, which is a great option if you’ve made a large batch and want to save some for later. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to account for expansion as the soup freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop. You might need to adjust the consistency by adding a splash of water or vegetable broth as the soup may thicken a bit during freezing.

3. Reheating Tips:

When reheating the soup, do so slowly over medium heat to prevent it from boiling too vigorously, which could affect the texture. If the soup has thickened after refrigeration, you can loosen it with a bit of stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure the soup heats evenly.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup?

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is rich in flavor, offering a delicate balance of earthy sweetness from the beetroot, heat from the curry powder, and warmth from the spices. To complement this vibrant dish, here are some great pairing ideas:

1. Crusty Bread or Naan:

A warm, crusty loaf of bread, such as sourdough or a hearty wholegrain, is perfect for dipping into the soup. The bread’s texture contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the beetroot soup. Alternatively, soft and fluffy naan bread, either plain or garlic-infused, adds a wonderful texture and additional flavor to the meal.

2. A Light Salad:

Pair your soup with a light salad to balance the richness. A fresh cucumber and mint salad, perhaps dressed with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, will provide a refreshing contrast to the spiced soup. You could also try a simple green salad with rocket, arugula, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

For a more indulgent pairing, you can’t go wrong with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey cheese and crispy bread work perfectly with the warmth of the curried soup, creating a comforting and filling meal. Try adding some tomato or pickles inside the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Roasted Vegetables:

Roasted vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or sweet potatoes make an excellent side. Roasting them with a touch of olive oil, cumin, and coriander will bring out their natural sweetness, which complements the soup’s bold spices. You could even toss in some roasted chickpeas for added texture and protein.

5. Rice:

If you’re looking for something more substantial, serve your soup over a bed of fragrant basmati rice. The rice will absorb the flavorful broth and make for a more filling meal. For added richness, you could drizzle a bit of coconut milk or yogurt over the rice and soup mixture.

6. Lightly Spiced Hummus:

A bowl of hummus, especially one spiced with a little cumin or smoked paprika, would be a great accompaniment. The creamy texture and earthy flavor of the hummus make it a great match with the soup’s depth of flavor.

These options ensure that your Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup isn’t just a standalone dish but part of a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of beets and the warmth of curry in a harmonious way. Its adaptability makes it easy to experiment with different variations based on your preferences, whether you want to ramp up the spice, add creaminess, or introduce new textures.

Storing leftovers is simple, and the soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. When it comes to what to serve with this vibrant soup, the possibilities are endless-from crusty bread and naan to refreshing salads or hearty grilled cheese sandwiches.

FAQs

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

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s curried beetroot soup include fresh or cooked beetroot, onions, garlic, curry powder, vegetable stock, olive oil, and a splash of cream or yogurt for added richness. Fresh herbs like coriander or parsley are optional for garnish.

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

The total preparation and cooking time for Mary Berry’s curried beetroot soup is approximately 45 minutes. The soup involves sautéing the onions and garlic, cooking the beetroot with curry powder, and then blending it all together until smooth. If you’re using pre-cooked beetroot, it can cut down the cooking time.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Curried Beetroot Soup Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s curried beetroot soup ahead of time. In fact, like many soups, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.