Black Bean Soup

There’s no way around. Black bean soup is ugly.

It’s gray-ish brown.  A little chunky.  Just not cute.

However, it’s all a ploy.  Because black bean soup is fantastic.  If you’ve never had it (or have been too scared to try since it obviously isn’t the prettiest girl at the prom), then you’re missing out.  It’s almost like a very beany, creamy vegetarian chili. 

 Get on the ugly soup wagon- it delicious.

Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup

In my world, soup solves all problems.

Don't know where to go for lunch.  Easy- hit up Panera for veggie soup in a bread bowl.
Not feeling well.  Nothing beats chicken noodle with crackers.
Gross, cold winter outside. Hello beef and sweet potato stew.
Don't know what to make for dinner. Broccoli Cheddar Potato to the rescue.

 

Plus, who doesn't love a reason to get out your immersion blender.  I always feel so "food network-y" whenever I use mine (I know- I'm a weirdo)

Beef & Sweet Potato Stew

 

After weeks of cookies and cupcakes and truffles and frosting and (a failed attempt at) brownies, sometimes you just want good ol’ red meat.

And sweet potatoes.

And carrots and onions and mushrooms and garlic.

And beer. DEFINITELY beer.

Then you pour it all over rice (ok- I may have skipped a few steps….but you get the idea). 

And then, with your hair a hot mess and a slight dusting of flour on your slippers (yes I wear slippers around my apartment. Yes, I’m actually 80 years old and go by Myrtle), you trek over to your couch and put on the greatest show ever.  Fear Factor.

Not kidding- have you seen it since it’s come back?  It’s ridic.  I can’t look away.  Part of me wants to be Joe Rogan when I grow up just so I can make people do the insane things on the show. 

Ahh…guilty pleasures….

French Onion Soup

It’s winter (more or less).  It’s cold. I have to wake up extra early to scrape the frost off of my windshield.  The sun’s rising as I get into work and setting as I leave. I have to wear socks. In a word- not a fan. (Ok, so three words….)

However, this “lovely” weather does give me the perfect excuse to spend my afternoon sautéing onions in butter, letting the smell waft through my entire apartment.  It’s heavenly, trust me.   And then I get to add thyme and parsley and bay leaves. 

Added plus, it's served in a ramekin.  Have I mentioned how much I love all things that come in ramekins. Case and point? Last week's white chocolate coconut crème brulee. :)  Topped with crunchy seasoned croutons and then smothered in not one, but TWO types of cheese.  Broiled to golden brown and bubbly goodness. 

This soup almost makes winters worth it.  Almost……..