Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
When the winter winds start to bite and the days grow short, there’s nothing quite like sinking your spoon into a steaming bowl of homemade soup or stew. The comforting aroma, the rich broth, the tender morsels of meat and vegetables – it’s a culinary hug that instantly warms you from the inside out.
As the temperatures drop and we seek refuge from the chill, these hearty, soul-nourishing dishes become the stars of the season. Whether it’s a classic chicken noodle, a spicy black bean chili, or a creamy mushroom bisque, there’s a soup or stew to satisfy every craving. And the best part? Many of these recipes can be made ahead of time, allowing you to simply reheat and enjoy on even the busiest of weeknights.
Saint Marc has the perfect selection of ceramic bowls and mugs to make your homemade soups and stews an even more inviting experience. From rustic farmhouse styles to sleek modern designs, their high-quality serveware will elevate your cozy winter meals.
Comforting Classics
No winter soup roundup would be complete without the tried-and-true favorites that have stood the test of time. French onion soup, with its rich, beefy broth, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, is a perennial crowd-pleaser. Bon Appétit has a classic recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to devour.
Another comfort food staple, chicken noodle soup, gets a gourmet upgrade in Delish’s take. Tender chunks of chicken mingle with carrots, celery, and egg noodles in a deep, savory broth – a surefire way to soothe the soul on a chilly day.
And for those craving a heartier, more substantial meal, beef stew is a wintertime essential. Country Living’s version is loaded with fork-tender beef, root vegetables, and a rich, tomatoey broth – the perfect antidote to a long, blustery afternoon.
Innovative Twists
While the classics will always have a special place in our hearts (and stomachs), the world of soup and stew has evolved far beyond the traditional. Innovative chefs and home cooks alike are constantly pushing the boundaries, infusing new flavors and ingredients into these cozy dishes.
Take, for example, the Philly cheesesteak soup from Delish. It takes all the beloved components of the iconic sandwich – tender beef, onions, peppers, and gooey cheese – and transforms them into a hearty, comforting soup. It’s a genius way to enjoy those classic flavors in a whole new format.
Or how about a chicken spinach artichoke soup, inspired by the beloved party dip? Delish’s recipe blends the richness of the dip with shredded chicken and a savory broth, creating a cozy, creamy dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
And for those craving something a little spicier, gochujang white chicken chili packs a flavorful punch. The white beans, green chiles, and jalapeño lend a welcome kick, while the sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that keeps you coming back for more.
Hearty Vegetarian Options
Just because you’re skipping the meat doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the comfort and satisfaction of a cozy winter soup or stew. In fact, some of the most nourishing and delicious options are entirely plant-based.
Take Bon Appétit’s mushroom dashi, for example. This savory, umami-packed broth is the perfect canvas for whatever vegetables and proteins you have on hand, making it an incredibly versatile and satisfying vegetarian meal. The caramelized onions, tomato paste, and nutritional yeast work together to create a rich, satisfying depth of flavor.
Another standout is the hearty vegetarian Ethopian dish from chef Fanta Prada, featuring a gingery, garlicky kick from the awaze spice blend. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and kale, it’s a comforting, nutrient-dense option that will leave you feeling satisfied and warm.
And for those craving something a little closer to a traditional stew, the creamy mushroom and barley soup is a true winner. The puréed mushrooms and cashews lend a luxurious, velvety texture, while the herbs and spices create a deeply savory, umami-forward broth.
Slow-Cooked Comfort
One of the best things about hearty soups and stews is that they’re often even better when given time to simmer and meld their flavors. That’s where the slow cooker and Instant Pot come in – these magical appliances allow you to let those comforting dishes do their thing while you get on with your day.
Delish’s slow-cooker chicken tortilla soup, for example, is a hands-off wonder. The chicken, beans, corn, and spices stew together in the Crock-Pot, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. All that’s left to do is ladle it into bowls and load it up with your favorite toppings.
And for a soup that’s ready in a flash, the Instant Pot potato soup from Delish is a revelation. Instead of boiling the potatoes for ages, the pressure cooker works its magic, delivering a creamy, comforting bowl in just 40 minutes flat. It’s the perfect solution for those chilly weeknights when you need something substantial on the table, stat.
Whether you have all day to let a stew simmer or just a half-hour to spare, these slow-cooked and pressure-cooked soups and stews will warm you from the inside out. And with the right serveware from Saint Marc, your homemade creations will look as good as they taste.
Embrace the Season
As the winter winds howl and the snow begins to fall, it’s time to embrace the cozy comforts of the season. And what better way to do that than with a steaming bowl of homemade soup or stew?
Whether you’re craving a classic like French onion or a more innovative twist like Philly cheesesteak, there’s a world of hearty, nourishing options waiting to be explored. And with the help of slow cookers and Instant Pots, you can enjoy that comforting goodness with minimal effort.
So, the next time the cold has you longing for a hug, reach for a spoon and dive into a bowl of winter’s most satisfying offerings. Your body and soul will thank you.
