Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup is a rich and fragrant Anglo-Indian dish that blends aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and hearty protein into a comforting, lightly spiced soup. With a creamy yet brothy texture, this soup is an ideal balance of warmth, depth, and a hint of spice.
What is Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup?
Mulligatawny soup originates from South Indian cuisine, adapted during British colonial rule. The name means “pepper water” in Tamil, and the soup traditionally includes a curry-spiced broth with vegetables, rice, and meat, often chicken or lamb. Jamie Oliver’s version keeps the essence of this dish while making it simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.

Other Popular Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Mussels Soup
- Jamie Oliver Cornish Pasty
- Jamie Oliver Vegetarian Meatloaf
- Jamie Oliver Fish and Chips
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and warming: Perfect for chilly days or when you need comfort food.
- Aromatic and flavorful: Features a blend of mild curry spices.
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and warming spices.
- Easily customizable: It can be made vegetarian, vegan, or with chicken or lamb.
- Simple one-pot meal: Everything is cooked in a single pot, making cleanup easy.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
Base Ingredients:
- Olive oil or butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the aromatics.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped) – Adds depth and sweetness.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Enhances the flavor.
- Ginger (1-inch piece, grated) – Brings warmth and a subtle kick.
- Carrot (1, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped) – Provides a savory base.
- Apple (1, peeled and grated) – Balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
Spices:
- Curry powder (1 tbsp) – The key flavoring for the soup.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp) – Adds depth and earthiness.
- Ground coriander (1 tsp) – Enhances the warm spice profile.
- Turmeric (½ tsp) – Adds color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Chili flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a bit of heat.
Soup Base:
- Chicken or vegetable stock (1 liter) – Forms the rich broth.
- Tomatoes (400g canned or 2 fresh, chopped) – Adds a tangy depth.
- Red lentils (100g, rinsed) – Helps thicken the soup and adds protein.
- Cooked rice (½ cup, basmati or jasmine) – Traditional in mulligatawny soup.
- Coconut milk (200ml, optional for creaminess) – Softens the spice level.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Balances flavors.
Protein (Optional):
- Cooked chicken or lamb (200g, shredded or diced) – For a meaty version.
Garnish:
- Fresh coriander (for serving) – Adds freshness.
- Lemon or lime wedges (for squeezing) – Enhances the brightness.
- Toasted almonds or cashews (optional) – Adds crunch.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking the soup.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping vegetables.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring.
- Ladle – For serving the soup.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the carrot, celery, and grated apple, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes.
- Stir well, cooking for another minute to release the aromas.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Add the chopped tomatoes, lentils, and stock. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the lentils soften.
Step 4: Add Rice and Protein (Optional)
- Stir in the cooked rice and shredded chicken or lamb if using.
- Pour in the coconut milk (if using) and season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander, toasted nuts, and a squeeze of lemon or lime.
- Serve hot with naan, chapati, or crusty bread.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup?
- Naan or chapati: Perfect for scooping up the soup.
- Steamed basmati rice: Adds extra heartiness.
- Cucumber raita: A cooling side to balance the spices.
- Mango chutney: Offers a sweet contrast to the flavors.
- A crisp white wine or chai tea: Complements the warmth of the spices.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
- Use a good curry powder: A high-quality curry powder enhances the depth of flavor.
- Let the spices bloom: Sautéing them for a minute before adding liquid intensifies their aroma.
- Adjust consistency: Add more stock if you prefer a thinner soup, or blend half the soup for a thicker texture.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable stock and omit the meat for a plant-based version.
- Customize the spice level: Increase or decrease the chili flakes to your taste.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
- Creamy version: Blend half the soup for a smoother consistency.
- Extra protein: Add chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian protein boost.
- Spicier version: Add fresh green chilies for extra heat.
- Nutty twist: Stir in almond butter or cashew cream for a nutty richness.
- Lower-carb version: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice instead.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Separation fix: Stir well after storing, as the lentils and rice may thicken the soup.
Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
- Stovetop method: Reheat over low heat, adding a little extra stock or water if needed.
- Microwave method: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent uneven heating.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup is a wonderfully aromatic and nourishing dish that perfectly blends Indian and British flavors.
Serve it with bread or rice for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and history.
FAQs
What makes mulligatawny soup unique?
Mulligatawny soup is known for its blend of Indian spices, creamy texture, and the use of rice, lentils, and sometimes meat, making it a fusion of Indian and British flavors.
Can I make mulligatawny soup without coconut milk?
Yes, you can omit the coconut milk or substitute it with heavy cream for a different kind of richness.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free stock, the soup is naturally gluten-free.
How can I make mulligatawny soup more filling?
Add extra protein like chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken to make it more substantial.
Print 
		Jamie Oliver Mulligatawny Soup
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Simmering
Description
Mulligatawny soup originates from South Indian cuisine, adapted during British colonial rule. The name means “pepper water” in Tamil, and the soup traditionally includes a curry-spiced broth with vegetables, rice, and meat, often chicken or lamb. Jamie Oliver’s version keeps the essence of this dish while making it simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- Olive oil or butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the aromatics.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped) – Adds depth and sweetness.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Enhances the flavor.
- Ginger (1-inch piece, grated) – Brings warmth and a subtle kick.
- Carrot (1, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped) – Provides a savory base.
- Apple (1, peeled and grated) – Balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
Spices:
- Curry powder (1 tbsp) – The key flavoring for the soup.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp) – Adds depth and earthiness.
- Ground coriander (1 tsp) – Enhances the warm spice profile.
- Turmeric (½ tsp) – Adds color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Chili flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a bit of heat.
Soup Base:
- Chicken or vegetable stock (1 liter) – Forms the rich broth.
- Tomatoes (400g canned or 2 fresh, chopped) – Adds a tangy depth.
- Red lentils (100g, rinsed) – Helps thicken the soup and adds protein.
- Cooked rice (½ cup, basmati or jasmine) – Traditional in mulligatawny soup.
- Coconut milk (200ml, optional for creaminess) – Softens the spice level.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Balances flavors.
Protein (Optional):
- Cooked chicken or lamb (200g, shredded or diced) – For a meaty version.
Garnish:
- Fresh coriander (for serving) – Adds freshness.
- Lemon or lime wedges (for squeezing) – Enhances the brightness.
- Toasted almonds or cashews (optional) – Adds crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the carrot, celery, and grated apple, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes.
- Stir well, cooking for another minute to release the aromas.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Add the chopped tomatoes, lentils, and stock. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the lentils soften.
Step 4: Add Rice and Protein (Optional)
- Stir in the cooked rice and shredded chicken or lamb if using.
- Pour in the coconut milk (if using) and season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander, toasted nuts, and a squeeze of lemon or lime.
- Serve hot with naan, chapati, or crusty bread.

 
                     
                    