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Winter Comforts: Hearty Soups and Stews to Warm the Soul

Cold weather calls for hot food. Craving meals that are warming, nourishing and deeply comforting? the kind you can curl up with after a cold walk or a long day? So are we, let’s talk winter comfort food.

Soups and stews are the ultimate comfort food in winter. They’re hearty without being heavy, easy to make, and perfect for using seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family or batch-cooking for the week ahead, these cosy classics deliver flavour, warmth and feel-good nourishment in every bowl.

Milk & More

Posted 14-01-26

Comfort, warmth and nourishment

There’s something instantly soothing about a steaming bowl of soup or stew. Slow cooking allows flavours to deepen, while hot broths and sauces help you feel cosy from the inside out. Packed with vegetables, pulses and herbs, these dishes are a deliciously simple way to enjoy balanced, nourishing meals during the colder months.

Affordable, filling meals for colder days

The other great thing about soups and stews? They’re kind to your budget. Using affordable ingredients like root vegetables, beans and lentils, you can create filling meals that go a long way. They’re ideal for stretching ingredients further, making them a smart choice when you want winter comfort food that doesn’t cost a bomb.

Essential Ingredients for Winter Comfort Cooking

Seasonal root vegetables

Winter vegetables are *made* for soups and stews. Think carrots, parsnips, potatoes and squash. They add natural sweetness, texture and depth, while holding up beautifully during longer cooking times.

Try one of our favourite winter comfort food recipes: Sweet potato and coconut curry.

Beans, lentils and pulses

Lentils, chickpeas and beans are staples in many winter comfort food recipes. They’re filling, affordable and packed with plant-based protein and fibre. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, but they also work brilliantly alongside meat for extra heartiness.

Stocks, herbs and warming spices

A good stock is the foundation of any great soup or stew. Vegetable, chicken or beef stock adds richness, while herbs like thyme, rosemary and bay bring warmth and aroma. Spices such as cumin, paprika or nutmeg can instantly make a dish feel more comforting on cold days.

Dairy and plant-based additions for richness

A splash of cream, milk or a spoonful of yoghurt can transform a soup into something indulgent yet balanced. Prefer a plant-based alternative? Oat or coconut milk works just as well, adding creaminess without overpowering the flavours.

Pssst…Many of these essentials are easy to source through Milk & More, making winter cooking feel effortless!

heary winter soups

Hearty Soup and Stew Recipes to Try

Classic vegetable soup

A timeless favourite, vegetable soup is also a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies in the fridge. Gently cook onions, carrots, celery and potatoes, add vegetable stock and simmer until tender. Blend smooth or leave chunky, depending on your mood. Serve with crusty bread for a simple, satisfying meal.

Lentil and root vegetable stew

One of the ultimate winter comfort foods: a hearty stew. Combine red or green lentils with carrots, parsnips and squash, add warming spices and let it simmer slowly. The result is a rich, filling stew that’s perfect for cold evenings (and often even better the next day).

Creamy winter soup with seasonal veg

Leeks, cauliflower or broccoli make an excellent base for creamy soups. Add stock, simmer until soft, then blend with milk or a plant-based alternative for a velvety finish. A great option when you want something comforting but not too heavy.

Slow-cooked comfort stews

Slow cookers really shine in winter. Whether it’s a beef and vegetable stew or a plant-based bean casserole, slow cooking allows flavours to develop fully while requiring very little hands-on time. Ideal for busy days when you want dinner ready and waiting.

Tips for Making the Most of Winter Cooking

Batch cooking and freezing

Soups and stews freeze beautifully, making them ideal for batch cooking. Make a big pot, freeze individual portions, and you’ll always have comforting meals ready for busy or chilly days. (Genius!)

Using leftovers to reduce waste

Leftover vegetables, cooked grains or roasted roots can all be turned into soup. Simply add stock, herbs and seasoning, then blend or simmer. It’s an easy way to reduce food waste while creating delicious winter comfort food.

Pairing soups with simple sides

With the right side dish, a soup becomes a meal. Think toasted sourdough, cheese on toast, flatbreads or simple salads for contrast. Sometimes, it really is the little extras that make comfort food feel complete.

Feeling hungry? Check out our range of recipes at Milk & More.

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Winter Comforts: Hearty Soups and Stews to Warm the Soul