The week after Thanksgiving is the unofficial start of winter, as far as we're concerned. With twinkling lights appearing around the neighborhood and the smell of fireplaces crackling in the distance, there is nothing greater than a pot of soup or stew simmering on the stovetop.
Try one of our favorite recipes for the coziest dinners to share around the dinner table this week.
If the transitionary period between fall and winter had an identity, it would be this soup. Rich and creamy without being heavy, it's full of flavor from savory mushrooms, smoky bacon, and the star of the show: the under-appreciated chestnut.
Tomato season may be behind us, but tomato soup season runs all year round thanks to canned tomatoes. Pair a steamy bowl of soup with its best friend, the grilled cheese sandwich, or maybe a ham and cheese, if you like.
If you're cold, there is no better way to warm up than a bowl of creamy New England Clam Chowder. We love to use fresh clams, if you can get your hands on them, but nice tinned clams will get the job done, too. Crispy crackers are optional, but strongly recommended!
Yes, this recipe is a labor of love, but you won't regret spending some of your weekend time preparing this flavor-packed broth. We love making a double batch and freezing half to enjoy later.
Ham Bone and Collard Green Soup
These hardy winter greens are perfectly matched with the smoky ham, and you won't want to miss a drop of the broth. Serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping!
This Mexican classic is packed with the flavor of chiles, spices, and yes, even ginger! Serve it over rice, alongside warm tortillas, or stuff the meat into tacos or griddled quesadillas for quesabirria. Serve alongside the broth, called consomé, for dipping and sipping.
