Soups and Stews Start in The Pantry

A well stocked pantry can keep you safe from all sorts of storms. Whether you want to steer clear of the snowy roads or hunker down in preparation for a houseful of neighborhood kids, having the right foods on hand can make a huge difference. Sure, you can always go the heat and eat route, but where’s the fun in that? With a few key ingredients you’ll enjoy immersing yourself in your warm kitchen, while providing a steaming bowl for the rest of your snowbound family members.

Lentils and beans: Both canned and dried beans enrich soups and stews with hearty flavor, creamy texture and a healthy dose of protein. When time is not an issue, simmering a pot of lentils, split peas or whole beans can warm up the entire household. Up for it? Take this recipe for Ratatouille Lentil Soup and put your pots and pans to good use.

Canned corn, tomatoes and California Ripe Olives: You don’t have to wait for the right season to add fresh flavors to your soups. Canned tomatoes have a richness that stands up to the lengthy cooking times required of meaty stews, while corn and ripe olives spike soups with a great hit of flavor on a cold winter night. Of course, Country-Style Corn Chowder hits the spot anytime of the year.

Pastas, rice and grains: Added to soups, these ingredients can turn an appetizer into a main course in no time. Note, that pasta, rice and grains all require large amounts of liquid to cook properly. Unless you are using a reliable recipe like Quinoa Pork Stew , it’s often beneficial to precook them in a separate pot of water prior to adding them to your recipe. Otherwise they can take over the whole bowl.

Chicken stock: One of the most important ingredients to keep stocked on your shelves is stock. Vegetarians try vegetable stock. Why start a soup with water, when adding stock gives you extra flavor in every bite? Just make sure to taste your creation before seasoning with additional salt as sodium levels vary.

Onions and Garlic: Keep a basket of onions and garlic on hand and a tasty meal is always within reach. Remember to store in a cool dry place, with peals and skin intact, and these bulbs will stay fresh for a significant amount of time. Roasted, grilled or simply sautéed, most delicious soups rely on these aromatics. Spiced with chilies and cumin too, our Chicken Tortilla Soup is bursting with just the right flavor to warm your coldest winter day.