Warm Food for a Cold & Rainy Day

These January days have been cold and damp ~ the kind of cold that eats right into my bones. I know all you Northern folk think this Southern gal hasn't a clue as to what she is talking about, but I guess it is all in your perspective and for this Southern chic, forty degrees and raining is darn cold to me! In my effort to stay warm, I found a couple of recipes that make a great combination for lunch or supper. They can be made ahead and reheated as needed.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons plain flour
2 (14.5 oz) cans chicken broth
2 cups peeled and diced yukon gold potatoes
3 cups (approximately) broccoli chopped
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
8 oz sharp cheddar (grated)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste

In a large saucepan, melt butter over low-medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until tender. Stir in flour and whisk together. Gradually whisk in 1 can of chicken broth and stir until simmering and thickened.

Add remaining can of chicken broth and stir well. Add chopped potatoes. Cover and cook for about 1 hour until potatoes are tender. Check frequently and stir.

Stir in broccoli and can of evaporated milk. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Add grated cheese, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Irish Soda Bread

I saw this demonstrated on PBS by a guest on the Julia Child show. It is super simple and a great bread for soups ~ also makes good sandwich bread!

4 cups plain flour
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups buttermilk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Mix dry ingredients and add buttermilk and stir well. Dough should be sticky. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead well. Mound dough into a buttered casserole dish and bake for 50 minutes.

I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as I have . . . stay warm!