Small Possibilities

Winter is here, and with it comes chilly evenings, frosty mornings, and the occasional sniffle that seems to linger for weeks. There’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a blanket, curling up with a steaming bowl of soup, and letting the warmth melt the cold away. But what if your favorite soups could do more than just warm you up? What if they could help keep you healthy and thriving through the colder months?

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to grab quick, processed meals when you’re feeling run down. I’ve been there—balancing work, hobbies, and just getting through the day often leaves little time to think about nourishing meals. But I’ve learned that taking a little extra time to create a hearty, immune-boosting soup is one of the most mindful and comforting acts of self-care. These recipes aren’t just delicious—they’re a way to nurture your body and soul, making you feel grounded and cared for during winter’s toughest days.

If you’re ready to feel warm, cozy, and healthy this winter, stick around. I’ve put together a collection of hearty, nourishing soup and stew recipes that are as easy to make as they are delicious. These recipes are packed with immune-boosting ingredients and mindful touches that align with Small Possibilities’ vision of living intentionally and appreciating the small joys in life. Be sure to check out my Pinterest board for more cozy ideas, follow me on Instagram, and sign up for my newsletter for even more inspiration. You can also explore my favorite soup-making essentials and recipe picks on Benable!

Why Winter Soups Are the Perfect Comfort Food

There’s a reason soup has been called “the ultimate comfort food.” It’s warm, filling, and deeply nostalgic—often reminding us of childhood evenings spent around the kitchen table. Beyond nostalgia, soup offers a world of possibilities for incorporating healthy, immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, turmeric, ginger, leafy greens, and root vegetables.

For me, soup became a winter staple when I first learned to cook on a budget. One pot of soup could stretch into several meals, saving time, money, and energy. It was like a hug in a bowl, reminding me to slow down and savor the process. Whether you’re juggling work, school, or family, soup is a versatile way to nourish yourself and your loved ones without feeling overwhelmed

Immune-Boosting Ingredients to Keep on Hand

Stocking your pantry with a few key ingredients can make it easy to whip up healthy soups anytime. Here are some staples I always keep around:

Garlic

A natural immune booster that’s also delicious. Add it to broths, stews, or even roast it for a rich, caramelized flavor.

Ginger

Its anti-inflammatory properties make it perfect for fighting off colds. Grate fresh ginger into your soups for a zesty kick.

Leafy Greens

Think spinach, kale, or chard. These are loaded with vitamins and add a fresh, hearty texture to any soup.

Root Vegetables

Carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips bring natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins A and C.

Turmeric

Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this spice adds a golden hue and earthy flavor to broths and stews.

Pro Tip: You can find many of these ingredients at local grocery stores or order them online. Check out my favorite kitchen staples here for links to shop directly!

Cozy Recipes to Keep You Warm and Healthy

These recipes are perfect for winter nights when you need a little extra warmth and nourishment. Each one is packed with immune-boosting ingredients and easy to prepare.

Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes).

2. Stir in turmeric and cumin, letting the spices bloom for 1 minute.

3. Add red lentils, carrot, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are tender.

4. Stir in coconut milk and chopped spinach or kale. Simmer for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

This soup is creamy, vibrant, and full of flavor—a perfect hug in a bowl for cold winter nights.

Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).

2. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Sauté for another 5 minutes.

3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

4. Stir in shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.

5. Serve warm with crusty bread or biscuits.

This stew is hearty, wholesome, and perfect for boosting your immune system on a cold winter evening.

Creamy Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of coconut milk for topping

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and ginger, and sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes).

2. Add sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.

4. Stir in coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve warm, topped with roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of coconut milk for extra creaminess.

This soup is rich, velvety, and naturally sweet, making it a comforting and nourishing winter favorite.

Simple Tips for Making Soups Mindful and Special

Cooking soup can be a meditative process if you let it. Here’s how to make the experience more mindful:

• Set the Mood: Play some lo-fi music, light a candle, and take your time chopping vegetables.

• Use What You Have: Don’t stress if you’re missing an ingredient—soup is forgiving. Substitute with what you have on hand.

• Freeze for Later: Make a double batch and freeze portions for busy nights when you need a quick meal.

For me, the act of making soup is as comforting as eating it. It’s a small ritual that reminds me to slow down and enjoy the little things, like the smell of garlic simmering or the sound of a bubbling pot on the stove.

Let’s Stay Cozy Together

I hope these recipes inspire you to nurture yourself this winter with wholesome, immune-boosting meals. What’s your favorite winter soup or stew? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more cozy recipes and mindful living tips, and check out my Pinterest boards for even more inspiration. You can also explore my curated Benable list for soup-making essentials and my favorite winter ingredients.

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Cas Lin

Small Possibilities

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