January heralds the start of true winter weather, and damn it is cold. For some of us, below freezing cold. Even if you’re lucky enough to be basking in the SoCal sunshine, the season still calls for comforting, warm-you-inside-and-out food. So when all you want to do is curl up into a ball and stay under the covers, try these foods to keep you happy and warm.
Soups
1. Spicy Pumpkin Soup
Photo by Kendra Valkema
Did you think pumpkin was only for the fall? Think again. Try this recipe for a hearty, vegetarian soup full of good-for-you vitamins.
2. 10 Minute Prep Beef Stew
Photo by Tiare Brown
For those of us meat eaters, there’s nothing better than a bowl of beef stew on cold winter nights. This recipe uses a slow-cooker, which means you can just throw a couple of ingredients into your Crock-Pot and come home to a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs stew at the end of the day.
3. Coconut and Black Bean Stew
Photo by Keah Hansen
Coconut and black beans combine to form an unexpectedly delicious combo that takes you back to summer (ah, good times). Quinoa adds additional texture and protein. Get the recipe here.
4. Ginger Curry Egg Drop Soup
Photo by Julia Maguire
Chinese people have been eating egg drop soup for years, and for a good reason. It’s simple and quick to make, and is very light on the stomach, making it ideal for those who have caught a cold. This recipe takes the classic soup to the next level by adding ginger and curry, both of which help boost your immunity.
5. Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Photo by Parisa Soraya
You don’t even have to go to Panera to get this much-loved soup. This recipe only has 5 ingredients, is lower in sodium and far cheaper to make than Panera’s version.
Entrées
1. Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili
Photo courtesy of karenskitchenstories.com
Hearty and spicy, this slow-cooker chili is guaranteed to fill you right up. The recipe calls for 6-8 servings so freeze the leftovers and simply re-heat them on the stove for a last-minute weeknight dinner.
2. Pizza Mac ‘n Cheese
Photo by Tiare Brown
The ultimate love child of two college staples. Words are unnecessary.
3. French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese
Photo by Amanda Shulman
Cue foodporn — just look at that gooey cheese, that buttery, golden brown crust, those beautiful caramelized onions. Who wouldn’t want french onion soup in grilled cheese form?
Desserts
1. Baked Banana S’mores
Photo by Gabby Phi
No, s’mores aren’t just a summertime treat. You can make your own baked s’mores — no campfire needed.
2. Microwave Chia and Flaxseed Oatmeal
Photo by Becky Hughes
This oatmeal can be customized any way you want it. Add vanilla or almond extract for extra sweetness or use bananas and strawberries instead of blueberries. All you really need is a microwave to enjoy this recipe for a nutritious breakfast, snack or even dessert.
3. Molten Chocolate Cake
Photo by Jocelyn Hsu
Ooey, gooey chocolate-y goodness. Perfect for the upcoming Valentine’s Day. It’s easier to make than it looks with this recipe.
Drinks
1. (Boozy) Mulled Hot Chocolate
Photo by Emma Danbury
Mulled wine is good, there’s no doubt about it, but like most things, it can be made better with chocolate. Try this recipe for a hot chocolate-mulled wine variation.
2. Mulled Wine
Photo by Daniel Schuleman
Just as sangria is a necessary staple in the summer, mulled wine is essential for the winter. Try this classy recipe.
3. Hot Toddy
Photo by flickr user WarmSleepy
Feeling under the weather? Don’t worry, you can still drink alcohol. In fact, it might even make you feel better. Try this recipe.
4. Ginger Tea
Photo courtesy of wisegeekhealth.com
Boost your immunity by sipping on this warming drink. If you’ve already caught a cold, this tea will soothe your throat and help you recover quickly.
And there you go! Stay warm. And if you want some winter fun, take this quiz: Which Winter Drink Are You?