Comfort Foods for Winter Storms.

RHYS BOWEN: I know that some of you are dealing with horrible winter storm conditions this weekend. I'm sending warming vibes your way!  Also some suggestions to make life more pleasant.

I don't know about you but the moment we get the first wintery blast my mind turns to soups. We usually have a roasted chicken every week and I use the carcass to make a really good chicken stock. Then I work my way through a variety of home made , comforting soups that we eat every day for lunch.

Some favorites are: carrot and ginger

Curried parsnip

butternut squash and cinnamon apple 

leek and potato.

Last week my friend (and friend of the Reds Susan Shea) presented me with this lovely book. It's full of the most yummy soups ever, including the Ribbolita she made for me. So rich and hearty and warming.  I'm sharing a similar Tuscan soup that I make when we have guests in winter. It's a Tuscan chicken soup, especially easy if you have leftover chicken.

First make a base of aromatics. Carrot, celery, onion, garlic. Saute in oil then add good chicken stock. To this add a can of caneloni or white beans, plus a can of crushed tomatoes.

If you are using fresh chicken breast cut it small and saute it first. If left-over chicken breast don't add it until the aromatics are cooked through.  When the chicken is warmed stir in half and half or coconut milk if you're dealing with lactose intolerance.

Finally float spinach leaves on the top until it is just wilted. You can serve with a dollop of sour cream, grated parmesan on top.  Really yummy.

So what is your favorite hearty soup?