Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Runner Bean Stew

This comforting and wholesome Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Runner Bean Stew is a celebration of simple ingredients done right. Tender runner beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce and finished with creamy, salty feta make this an easy, nourishing dish you can throw together any day of the week. I made it as a light lunch, and the fresh oregano and warm feta made it feel extra special. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 400g runner beans
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ a bunch of oregano (10g)
• 2 x 400g tins plum tomatoes
• 100g feta cheese

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Runner Bean Stew

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready for baking the stew once you’ve got everything simmering.
• Prep the Beans: Trim the ends off the runner beans and use a speed peeler to remove any tough, stringy edges along the sides. This helps ensure they cook to a lovely, tender texture.
• Cook the Garlic and Oregano: Peel and thinly slice the garlic. In a large ovenproof pan or casserole dish, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and pick in the oregano leaves, stirring for a few minutes until the garlic is just golden and fragrant.
• Build the Sauce: Pour in the tinned plum tomatoes and break them up with a potato masher or spoon. Season with sea salt and black pepper, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
• Simmer the Beans in the Sauce: Place the runner beans into the sauce, pressing them down so they’re nicely submerged. Cover with a scrunched-up piece of wet greaseproof paper to trap in steam and help the beans cook evenly.
• Bake the Stew: Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the beans are soft and the sauce has thickened. Remove the paper.
• Add the Feta and Serve: Crumble the feta over the top. Serve right away if you like it fresh and tangy—or return the dish to the oven for another 10 minutes to let the feta melt slightly into the stew. Either way is delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

This is one of those brilliant “use what you’ve got” dishes that still feels thoughtful and balanced. The creamy feta contrasts beautifully with the sweet tomatoes and earthy beans, and the fresh oregano adds a subtle aromatic lift. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for warmer or cooler weather alike.

Recipe Tips

• Peel the beans: Trimming the runner beans properly ensures they cook evenly and don’t turn tough.
• Fresh oregano makes a difference: It brings a lovely brightness—dried oregano is fine, but use fresh if you can.
• Mash the tomatoes well: A smooth sauce helps coat the beans and gives the stew its comforting base.
• Use greaseproof paper for even cooking: The steam gets trapped, tenderizing the beans gently.
• Feta goes on last: Whether you serve it crumbled or melted, feta is the perfect finishing touch.

How To Store Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Runner Bean Stew

• In the Fridge : Cool the stew completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Yes, this stew freezes well. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating : Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use green beans instead of runner beans?
  Yes, you can—just adjust the cooking time slightly as green beans may soften quicker.
• What if I don’t have fresh oregano?
  You can use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano as a substitute, though fresh really shines here.
• Can I add other veggies?
  Absolutely. Courgettes or red peppers would work beautifully alongside the beans.
• Is this dish vegetarian?
  Yes! It’s naturally vegetarian and full of flavour.
• What should I serve it with?
  Crusty bread or a simple grain like bulgur or couscous would make a great pairing.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 183 kcal
• Fat: 12.2g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5g
• Protein: 7.9g
• Carbohydrates: 11.6g
• Sugars: 10.8g
• Salt: 1.1g
• Fibre: 1.8g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• 5 Ingredients Mujadara
• 5 Ingredients Potato Bombas
• 5 Ingredients Stuffed Squash
• 5 Ingredients Smoky Tender Aubergine