Cozy nights are the perfect excuse to gather around the table with loved ones and savor a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. There’s something special about simmering a pot of deliciousness that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and warms your heart. In this article, we’ll share 18 hearty simmering recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic beef and Guinness stew to spicy coconut curry with chickpeas, these recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and textures to suit every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this culinary journey together!
Beef and Guinness Stew
This classic Irish stew recipe combines tender beef with the rich flavors of Guinness stout, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Guinness, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot, add carrots and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Chicken and Dumplings
Warm up with a comforting bowl of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, and celery in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, cover, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. To make dumplings: Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add hot broth to form a dough.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the surface of the pot and cover with a lid.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Coconut Curry with Chickpeas
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chickpeas. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be served over rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk; season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip. This recipe is quick and easy to make, with a bright and tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Cabbage Goulash
This hearty and flavorful goulash is a classic Eastern European dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender pork, crunchy cabbage, and a rich broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove pork; add onions and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cabbage and cook until wilted, about 10 minutes.
5. Add broth, wine (if using), caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork to the pot; bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Discover the rich flavors of Morocco with this slow-cooked lamb tagine recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
6. Stir in chopped apricots and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Vegetable Minestrone
This classic Italian soup is a staple of comfort food, packed with an assortment of vegetables and beans in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (8 oz) vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, chopped
– 1 small celery stalk, chopped
– 1/4 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, zucchini, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and kidney beans; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the pasta shapes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clam Chowder
Warm up with this comforting seafood classic! This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Gradually add clam juice, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add clams and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until clams are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Korean Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi Jjigae, or Spicy Kimchi Stew, is a popular Korean dish that combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm and spicy stew. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cups water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi, black pepper, and gochujang; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the kimchi is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hungarian Goulash
Hungarian Goulash Recipe Summary:
This hearty and flavorful Hungarian goulash recipe is a classic dish that warms the soul. A rich beef stew made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a blend of spices, this goulash is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef cubes (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, breaking them up into smaller pieces as needed.
3. Add paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the broth, wine (if using), and tomato paste; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese with this classic French onion soup recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 6 slices of baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top with toasted baguette slices and grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe for Thai Red Curry with Shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Add bell peppers, fish sauce, brown sugar, and cumin; stir to combine.
6. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean Chili
This recipe makes a big batch of deliciously flavorful black bean chili that’s perfect for a crowd or meal prep. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty and nutritious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people
Japanese Miso Soup
This classic Japanese soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that can be prepared in no time. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and savory bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Optional: noodles, tofu, or other ingredients of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add soy sauce and grated ginger. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this classic Butter Chicken recipe, a popular dish from North India. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices and melted butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and butter. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Italian Wedding Soup
This hearty Italian Wedding Soup is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Made with tender chicken, vegetables, and tiny meatballs, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 small cabbage head, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, and cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mexican Pozole
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy (dried and soaked corn kernels) and a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of the soup with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried hominy
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped garlic
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cups shredded chicken or vegetable (optional)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the hominy and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the hominy again.
3. In a large pot, combine the broth, onion, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the soaked hominy to the pot and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the hominy is tender.
5. Stir in the lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and shredded chicken or vegetables (if using).
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 hearty simmering recipes, perfect for a chilly night. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try Beef and Guinness Stew or Chicken and Dumplings for a warm and comforting meal. For a taste of the exotic, try Spicy Coconut Curry with Chickpeas or Moroccan Lamb Tagine. And don’t forget about old favorites like Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce and French Onion Soup. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or soothing, these recipes will keep you cozy all winter long.
