The cool autumn breeze signals the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a warm bowl of soup or stew. As the temperatures drop, these comforting dishes satisfy our cravings for heartwarming meals.
Chili is a classic fall favorite. A pot of beef and bean chili simmering on the stove fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Serve the chili with cornbread, cheese, green onions, and sour cream. For a meatless meal, vegetable chili made with squash, zucchini, bell peppers, and beans is equally satisfying.
Nothing says comfort like chicken noodle soup. Homemade chicken stock provides a rich base for egg noodles, chunks of chicken, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and corn. A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and color. For extra nutrition, add barley or wild rice.
Hearty beef stew is ideal for a chilly autumn evening. Cubed chuck roast, potatoes, carrots, and peas are simmered in a savory broth. A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping in the flavorful sauce. For extra decadence, top the stew with a dollop of mashed potatoes.
Pumpkin soup is a fall classic. Simmer chunks of pumpkin with stock and spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. For a creamy soup, puree the pumpkin and stock and stir in coconut milk or half and half. Garnish the soup with pumpkin seeds, croutons, or fried sage leaves.
Butternut squash soup is a favorite fall staple. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness. Simmer the roasted squash with stock and spices, then puree until smooth and creamy. For extra flavor, add apples, curry, or maple syrup.
Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches are a match made in heaven. Use fresh or canned tomatoes to make a homemade tomato soup. For extra depth of flavor, add red wine, basil, oregano, and garlic. Grill the sandwiches on sourdough or ciabatta bread with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Potato soup with bacon and cheddar cheese is comfort food at its finest. Dice potatoes, onions, and bacon and simmer in stock until the potatoes are tender. Puree some of the potatoes to thicken the soup and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Top the soup with extra bacon, cheddar, chives, and bread crumbs.
Minestrone soup, a hearty Italian vegetable soup, is ideal for a casual fall meal. A tomato base is packed with beans, pasta, and vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Serve the soup with parmesan cheese, basil, and crusty Italian bread.