Winter calls for comfort food, and that’s all I’m hearing about it. Which is not to say I want to ruin all the good work I’ve put in to stay healthy over summer. These recipes will wrap you up like a blanket and warm you from the inside out, without being too weighty (ahem) on the conscience. Perfect for those lazy evenings or when you’re craving something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
1. Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Nothing says comfort quite like a steaming bowl of soup, and I’m not talking the packaged kind. This lentil and vegetable mix is healthy, easy to prepare, and brimming with flavour. To make it, start by sautéing a chopped onion, three minced garlic cloves, three sliced medium carrots, and two chopped celery stalks in a pot until everything is tender. Once the vegetables are softened, add a cup of rinsed lentils, a can of diced tomatoes, a teaspoon of cumin, and a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover everything with water or broth. Let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the lentils are tender. Serve it up with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect cozy meal.
2. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Quick, simple, and ultra-comforting, this creamy tomato basil pasta will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. Begin by cooking 200 grams of pasta—penne or fusilli works well—according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and sauté three minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Add in a can of crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Once the pasta is ready, toss it into the skillet and mix until everything is well-coated. Top with fresh basil leaves and enjoy.
3. Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
This spicy and rich chickpea curry will warm you up and can be made in under 30 minutes. Start by sautéing a chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves in a pot until they’re soft. Then, add a tablespoon of curry powder and a tablespoon of tomato paste, cooking for another minute to bring out the flavors. Pour in a can of coconut milk and add a drained can of chickpeas. Let the curry simmer for about 15 minutes. Serve over steamed rice for a simple, hearty meal.
4. Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This creamy potato soup is loaded with cheese, bacon, and all the comforting flavours you crave on a cold day. To make it, peel and cube four large potatoes and chop an onion. Boil the potatoes and onion in three cups of chicken or vegetable broth until they are tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Once cooked, blend the mixture until smooth. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream and a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Serve the soup topped with crispy bacon bits and chopped chives for that extra warmth and indulgence.
5. Hot Spiced Apple Cider
Not quite a meal, but definitely a winter warmer, this hot apple cider is perfect for cozying up with on a frosty evening. To make it, combine four cups of apple juice with two cinnamon sticks, three cloves, a sliced orange, and a tablespoon of honey in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let the flavors blend for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the cider and serve it hot in your favorite mug for an instant dose of warmth.