March and April are odd months here in the Midwest. One day it's 30 degrees and snowing, the next it's sunny and 60. It not only creates confusion for how to dress -- but also for how to cook! I'm eagerly awaiting the farmers' markets to reopen (bring on the veggies), but I still want a warm, comforting dish on these colder nights. That's where this recipe comes in.
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Broccoli cheddar soup is incredibly comforting and nostalgic for me. My mom used to make a version of this with homemade garlic bread, typically on the weekend, as I remember cupping a warm bowl in my lap while we'd have family movie night. It's hearty and full of flavor -- all I want on a cold winter's night.
Split pea soup is one of those dishes you either love or hate. The split peas themselves do lend a rather distinct flavor, but for me, it's one of the most comforting, heart-warming soups during the autumn and winter months here in the Midwest.
Ah, enchiladas. I love Mexican/Latin-inspired cuisine and enchiladas have always been a favorite of mine. The crispy edges and soft interior ... plus, I love the endless possibilities for fillings; veggies, cheese, meat (if you eat it), shrimp, tofu, beans, rice, and so on. I went with a classic filling on this one but made it vegetarian by using Quorn USA "meat" crumbles. My husband - who loves a good steak - said these were delicious and wouldn't have known they were plant-based unless I'd told him.
I've been vegetarian for over a decade now, and one of my favorite things to do as a chef is take classic recipes - like Shepherd's Pie - and swap out the meat for plant-based alternatives. Despite the acceptance and push toward vegetarian and vegan diets in recent years, I think there's still an underlying misconception that flavorful, robust meals can't be achieved without meat. The good news is, that's entirely untrue -- and this comforting, filling, hearty dish is here to prove it.
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Ever since I was a little girl, I've carried a notebook with me and filled it with stories, ideas, inspirations, sketches and now - endless recipes. Follow along here for a peek into my world as we explore food, entertaining, my home and life here in the Midwest. Categories
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