As the weather gets colder, it’s safe to say that Winter is upon us and that means that warm and cosy nights are now a priority. With this in mind as well as warm blankets and burning candles, we usually turn to comfort foods to keep us warm during the colder months. Dishes such as chicken pot pie, soups and casseroles all become a meal regular in the home, keeping you warm on the inside too. Here at Kellyision, we understand that with so many options it can be hard to choose, which is why we want to create you the perfect three-course meal for Winter to share with your family and friends. 

Starter 

Creamy Mushroom Soup

Soups are a perfect starter for cold nights. Use porcini and wild mushrooms to create this delicious, rich and creamy soup which makes a filling yet light starter. You can also add some bread at the side of the dish if you wish to make it a bit more substantial.

Ingredients 

• 25g Dried porcini
• 50g Butter
• 1 Onion
• 1 Garlic clove
• Thyme sprigs
• 400g Mixed wild mushrooms
• 850ml Vegetable stock
• 200ml Creme fraiche
• Truffle oil
• Bread cubes

Directions

• Bring a kettle to boil, then pour the water over the dried porcini just to cover. Heat half the butter in a saucepan, then gently sizzle the onion, garlic and thyme for 5 minutes until softened and starting to brown. Drain the porcini, reserving the juice, then add to the onion with the mixed wild mushrooms, then leave to cook for 5 minutes until they go limp.

• Pour over the stock and the reserved juices, bring to the boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the creme fraiche, then simmer for an extra few minutes. Wiz up the soup with a hand blender and then pass through a sieve before setting aside.

• Heat the rest of the butter in a frying pan and fry the bread cubes until golden, then drain on some paper. To serve, heat the soup and froth with a hand blender.

Main Course 

Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese 

A casserole is usually the perfect meal for winter, as it is packed with so much goodness and is delicious. It is a perfect dish for sharing and is also easy to transport if you would like to take it to a dinner party. 

Ingredients 

• 1 Pound of extra lean ground beef
• 1 Cup of onion 
• 1 Can of chopped tomatoes
• 2 Teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 Teaspoons of salt
• 15 Ounces of corn
• 16 Ounces of potatoes (Mashed) 
• ¼ Cup of flour
• 1 Green bell pepper
• 4 Tablespoons of melted butter
• 2 Cups of mild cheddar cheese

Directions 

• Combine the beef, onions, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce and salt in one bowl and in and in another combine corn, potatoes, flour, butter and the chopped pepper. 

• Pat the beef mixture into a baking pan and then top with corn the and potato mixture. 

• Bake in the oven at 190 degrees for 45 minutes; sprinkle with cheese and bake the ground beef casserole for an extra 15 to 20 minutes longer. 
  

Dessert

Hot Fudge Cake 

What a wonderful way to top off a fantastic meal. This fudge cake is not overly sweet and is the perfect temperature keeping you warm this Winter. If you would like to cool it down, however, adding some ice cream or cream over the top is the perfect topping. 

Ingredients 

• 1 Cup of all purpose flour
• ¾ Cup of sugar
• 6 Tablespoons of baking cocoa
• 2 Teaspoons of baking powder
• ¼ Teaspoon salt
• ½ cup of 2% milk 
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Cup of packed brown sugar
• 1-¾ Cups of hot water
• Ice Cream or whipped cream 

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and then in a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, baking powder and salt. In another bowl whisk milk, oil and vanilla until blended. Then add flour and stir until moistened. 

• Transfer to an un-greased baking pan. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and the remaining cocoa; sprinkle over batter. Pour hot water overall and do not stir. 

• Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes and serve warm with desired toppings.
  

Vision Oven From Kellyvision