TIPS Winter Warmers Made Simple

Winter Warmers Made Simple

by Thelittleshine
by Thelittleshine

When the air turns crisp and cozy layers come out, nothing beats a bowl of warm, comforting soup. The best part? You don’t need ten different recipes — just one solid base that can transform into endless winter favorites.

Winter Warmers Made Simple

🌿 The Winter Soup Base

Start with this simple, hearty foundation that works with almost any ingredient you have on hand.

You’ll need:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 carrot and 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

  1. In a pot, warm the oil or butter. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  2. Add the carrot and celery, cooking for a few minutes.
  3. Pour in broth, season lightly, and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  4. Blend smooth for a creamy base, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

Now you’ve got your canvas — ready to customize!

🍠 Cozy Winter Variants

🥔 Creamy Potato & Leek Soup

Add sliced leeks and diced potatoes to the base, simmer until soft, blend smooth, and finish with a dash of cream.

🥕 Carrot Ginger Soup

Toss in extra carrots and a spoonful of fresh ginger. Blend and swirl in coconut milk for a velvety, immune-boosting bowl.

🍄 Mushroom Thyme Soup

Sauté mushrooms separately with butter and thyme, then stir into the soup for an earthy, aromatic version.

🥦 Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Add chopped broccoli to the simmering broth, blend half the mixture, and melt in shredded cheddar for a cheesy classic.

🍅 Tomato Basil Soup

Add chopped tomatoes and basil leaves, simmer, then blend until smooth. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and cracked pepper.

🌱 Lentil & Spinach Soup

Add ½ cup red lentils while simmering, then stir in spinach and a squeeze of lemon juice for a nutrient-packed meal.

🎃 Butternut Squash Soup

Add cubed squash, cook till soft, blend with nutmeg and cinnamon — a naturally sweet and creamy delight.

🍗 Chicken & Barley Soup

Add cooked shredded chicken and ¼ cup corn, simmer until tender, and season with herbs for a wholesome winter classic.

💡 Tip:

Freeze the base in portions — then add your chosen ingredients whenever you want a fresh, warm bowl in minutes.