Cozy Bowl: A Soul-Soothing Hearty Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

Cold days call for a comforting homemade winter warmer soup that wraps you in warmth from the inside out.

Packed with robust vegetables and tender chunks of meat, this recipe promises to chase away the winter chill.

The winter warmer soup blends classic ingredients with rich, satisfying flavors that dance on your palate.

Fragrant herbs and slow-simmered broth create a luxurious depth that elevates every spoonful.

Each ingredient is carefully selected to bring maximum comfort and nourishment.

The aroma alone will make you feel cozy and content.

Prepare to savor a bowl of pure winter comfort that will quickly become your go-to recipe for chilly evenings.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 180 kcal

Servings: 6

Ingredients For Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Onion: Adds aromatic foundation and depth to the soup with its sweet, mellow flavor.
• Garlic: Provides robust, pungent taste that enhances overall soup complexity.
• Carrots: Introduces natural sweetness and vibrant orange color to the winter soup.
• Celery: Contributes delicate, fresh flavor and subtle crunch to the vegetable base.

• Butternut Squash: Delivers creamy texture and rich, nutty sweetness to the soup.
• Potatoes: Creates comforting, thick consistency and absorbs surrounding flavors.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and subtle heat to elevate soup's depth.
• Thyme, Rosemary: Infuse aromatic, earthy herbal notes that complement winter vegetables.
• Chili Flakes: Optional ingredient for those wanting an extra spicy kick.

• Chickpeas, White Beans: Pack protein punch and create satisfying, hearty texture.
• Barley, Orzo: Provide filling grain element that makes soup more substantial.
• Kale, Spinach: Introduces vibrant green color and boosts nutritional value.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers bright, fresh garnish with mild herbal finish.

Equipment Used To Make Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Large Pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup, preferably with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
• Cutting Board: Sturdy surface for chopping onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and butternut squash.
• Sharp Chef's Knife: Crucial for precise vegetable chopping and making clean cuts.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking during cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps accurately measure broth, spices, and grains.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving the soup into bowls with ease.
• Colander: Optional for rinsing beans if needed.

Instructions To Prepare Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Fire Up the Flavor Base

Warm olive oil in a big pot and toss in chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and sliced celery. Let these veggies dance and soften until they release their delicious aroma, about 5-7 minutes.

• Build Depth with Spices and Root Vegetables

Mix in cubed potatoes and butternut squash, then sprinkle a magical blend of smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and chili flakes. Let everything mingle and caramelize for 2-3 minutes.

• Create Liquid Magic

Pour in broth and bring the mixture to a robust boil. Reduce heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes until vegetables become tender and dreamy.

• Boost Protein and Texture

Introduce chickpeas, white beans, and barley. Let these hearty ingredients blend and soften for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and develop a rich character.

• Add Fresh Green Finale

Toss in kale or spinach, letting the greens wilt and brighten the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Serve with Warmth

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls, scatter fresh parsley on top, and serve alongside crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Tips And Flavor Ideas For Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Perfect Soup Texture Tip: Crush some chickpeas against the pot's side to naturally thicken the soup without adding extra flour or starch.
• Meal Prep Magic: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers, leaving slight space for expansion, and reheat gently on stovetop.
• Protein Power Boost: Swap chickpeas with cooked shredded chicken or cubed tofu for different protein options that seamlessly blend with the soup's warm flavors.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Replace barley with quinoa or rice to make the recipe completely gluten-free without compromising the hearty texture and nutritional value.
• Vegan Variation: Ensure vegetable broth is used and skip any potential dairy garnishes. Add nutritional yeast for extra depth and cheesy undertone without animal products.

Serving Suggestions For Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Cozy Bread Companions: Slice up a crusty sourdough or rustic whole grain bread, toasted and rubbed with garlic for extra flavor. Serve alongside the soup for perfect dipping and added texture.
• Hearty Protein Boost: Top the soup with crumbled feta cheese, crispy bacon bits, or roasted chicken chunks to increase protein and create a more substantial meal for hungry diners.
• Warming Herbal Finish: Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley on top just before serving. These bright green garnishes add a fresh pop of color and enhance the soup's aromatic profile.
• Creamy Swirl Option: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream on top to create a rich, velvety finish that balances the soup's robust vegetable flavors.

Planning And Storage Advice For Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

• Refrigerator Storage Magic: Transfer leftover soup to airtight containers, keeping it fresh for 45 days. Cool completely before sealing to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
• Freezer-Friendly Batches: Portion soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving slight space for expansion. Freeze up to 3 months, making meal prep a breeze for busy weeks.
• Reheating Perfection: Thaw frozen soup in refrigerator overnight. Warm gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to restore creamy consistency. Add splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Smart Meal Prep Strategy: Prepare double batch and divide into individual servings. Pack lunches for work or quick dinners, ensuring delicious, nutritious meals are always ready when hunger strikes.

Hearty Winter Warmer Soup Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty lentil and vegetable winter warmer soup offers comfort during cold months. Rich Mediterranean flavors blend perfectly with simple ingredients. Nourishing warmth fills bowls, inviting you to savor each spoonful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 liters/6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 cup (150 g) cooked or canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup (150 g) cooked or canned white beans (rinsed and drained)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• ½ cup (75 g) pearl barley or orzo pasta (optional, for a thicker soup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Flavor Foundation: Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic essence in approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Spice Infusion: Add cubed potatoes and butternut squash, coating with smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow vegetables to caramelize and absorb spices for 2-3 minutes.
3. Liquid Integration: Pour broth into the pot, bringing to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let vegetables tenderize for 18-20 minutes until potatoes and squash become fork-tender.
4. Protein and Grain Harmony: Introduce drained chickpeas, white beans, and selected grain (barley or orzo) to the simmering liquid. Cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing ingredients to meld and develop a rich, slightly thickened consistency.
5. Verdant Finish: Incorporate chopped kale or spinach, cooking until greens wilt and turn vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Presentation: Ladle steaming soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve alongside crusty artisan bread or crisp crackers for a comforting winter meal.

Notes

• Sauté Strategically: Caramelize vegetables slowly to develop deep, rich flavors without burning. Keep heat at medium and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and maximum taste development.
• Spice Balance: Adjust smoked paprika and herbs according to preference, but don’t overpower the natural vegetable sweetness. Start with smaller amounts and taste as you go.
• Grain Selection Matters: Different grains absorb liquid differently. Barley takes longer to cook and adds more texture, while orzo cooks faster and creates a smoother soup consistency.
• Greens Timing: Add leafy greens like kale or spinach at the very end to preserve nutrients, color, and prevent overcooking. Wilting should take no more than 2-3 minutes for optimal freshness and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg