Jamie Oliver’s nut roast is a hearty, flavour-packed vegetarian centrepiece perfect for Christmas, Sunday roasts, or any special occasion. With toasted nuts, vegetables, herbs, and a rich tomato base, this dish delivers comforting texture and bold savoury flavours.
This recipe serves 6 people and takes around 60–70 minutes from start to finish.

Why This Recipe Is Worth Making

A perfect vegetarian roast alternative. Packed with nuts, vegetables, and herbs for a satisfying texture.
Deep, aromatic flavour. Toasted nuts and slow-cooked vegetables create richness and warmth.
Wonderful for holidays. Works beautifully as a centrepiece for festive meals.
Ideal for making ahead. Can be prepped, baked, sliced, and reheated easily.
Nutritious and filling. High in protein, fibre, and healthy fats.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast?

Jamie Oliver’s nut roast is a vegetarian loaf made from mixed nuts, sautéed vegetables, herbs, breadcrumbs, and eggs (or vegan substitutes).
It’s known for its hearty texture, earthy aroma, and versatility—great with gravy, roast potatoes, and festive sides.

Jamie Oliver Nut Roast Ingredients List

1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, grated
2 celery sticks, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
200g mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews), toasted and roughly chopped
100g breadcrumbs
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp thyme
2 eggs (or 2 flax eggs for vegan)
1 cup vegetable stock
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: dried cranberries, spinach, or grated cheese

How to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast – Simple Steps

Step 1: Prepare the nut mixture

Toast nuts in a dry pan until fragrant, then roughly chop. This step deepens their flavour and improves texture.

Step 2: Cook the vegetable base

Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrots in olive oil until soft. This forms the savoury backbone of the roast.

Step 3: Add herbs and tomato paste

Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, and tomato paste. Cooking the paste briefly enhances richness.

Step 4: Mix everything

In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, chopped nuts, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Add enough stock to bind the mixture so it holds its shape.

Step 5: Transfer to a loaf tin

Line a loaf tin with parchment and fill it with the mixture, pressing down gently so it forms clean slices later.

Step 6: Bake until firm and golden

Bake at 180°C for 40–45 minutes. The roast should be set, browned on top, and aromatic.

Step 7: Rest and slice

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the roast firm up for neat, clean slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast

Not toasting the nuts reduces flavour. Toasting brings out natural oils and richness.
Adding too much stock makes it soggy. Add liquid gradually to avoid a mushy final texture.
Skipping the resting time leads to messy slicing. Cooling slightly helps the loaf hold its shape.
Over-processing the nuts removes texture. Keep them slightly chunky for the best bite.
Under-seasoning dulls the overall flavour. Vegetables and nuts need enough herbs and salt.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve With Nut Roast

Gravy – Savoury and rich. Completes the dish perfectly.
Roast potatoes – Crispy and golden. A classic pairing for a roast meal.
Steamed greens – Light and nutritious. Balances the richness of the loaf.
Cranberry sauce – Sweet and tangy. Cuts through the savoury flavours beautifully.
Mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting. Works well with the nutty texture.

Expert Tips for Better Flavour and Texture

Use a mix of nuts. Gives the roast more depth and an interesting texture.
Add a little cheese for richness. Parmesan or cheddar enhances savoury notes.
Use fresh herbs when possible. Parsley, thyme, or rosemary boosts aroma.
Bake until lightly crisp on top. Gives a better finish and cuts cleanly.
Brush the top with oil before baking. Helps create a golden crust.

How to Add More Flavour to Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast

Stir in roasted garlic. Adds depth and sweetness.
Add lemon zest. Brightens the heavy nut flavours.
Use smoked paprika. Enhances warmth and richness.
Include dried cranberries. Adds festive sweetness and colour.
Mix in spinach. Adds nutrients and moisture.

How to Adjust This Recipe for Kids

Keep flavours mild. Reduce strong herbs and spices.
Chop nuts finely. Makes texture more child-friendly.
Add sweet vegetables. Carrots or sweetcorn improve appeal.
Serve with gravy. Helps kids enjoy the texture more easily.
Shape into mini muffins. More fun and easier to eat.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast Gluten-Free?

Not by default. To make it gluten-free:
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the stock is certified gluten-free.

Best Way to Store Leftovers

Cool fully before storing. Prevents sogginess.
Refrigerate in airtight tubs. Keeps fresh for 3–4 days.
Freeze slices for 2–3 months. Great for future meals.
Store sauce separately. Maintains the roast’s texture.
Wrap tightly before freezing. Prevents freezer burn.

Best Ways to Reheat Leftovers

Oven: 160°C for 10–12 minutes. Restores crispness.
Air fryer: Quick and effective. Gives a nice crust.
Microwave: Fast, but softens texture. Best for convenience.
Add a splash of stock if dry. Keeps slices moist.
Reheat gently. Prevents crumbling.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: ~330
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 24g
Fibre: 4g

FAQs

Why is my nut roast crumbly and not holding together?

The mixture may need more binding. Add a little extra stock or an additional egg (or flax egg for vegan) to help the ingredients stick together. Pressing the mixture firmly into the tin also improves the structure.

Can I make nut roast without eggs?

Yes. Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or a few tablespoons of mashed sweet potato. These vegan alternatives bind the roast well while keeping it moist.

How do I add more flavour to nut roast?

Toast the nuts until golden, sauté the vegetables slowly for sweetness, and include herbs like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika. Adding roasted garlic or a little cheese also boosts richness.

Can a nut roast be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Nut roast can be baked, cooled, and refrigerated for 3–4 days. It also freezes very well—either baked or unbaked—making it perfect for holiday prep.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver–style nut roast is wholesome, flavourful, and perfect as a festive main course or hearty vegetarian dinner. With its rich texture and aromatic spices, it brings comfort and celebration to any table. Enjoy it with your favourite roast sides!

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