As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, we’re excited to celebrate one of our favorite winter festivals: Imbolc! This ancient Celtic holiday marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, a time when the earth begins to stir from its slumber. To mark this special occasion, we’ve gathered 20 cozy recipes that will warm your heart and fill your belly. From hearty soups and stews to sweet treats and savory delights, these Imbolc recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast dish or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, our collection has something for everyone. With ingredients like honey, herbs, and spices, these recipes capture the cozy essence of Imbolc and will help you welcome in the longer days ahead. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in some delicious winter wonderland treats!
Imbolc Honey Oat Bread
As we welcome the promise of longer days and warmer temperatures, nourish your body and spirit with this sweet and satisfying Imbolc Honey Oat Bread. This recipe combines the earthy goodness of oats with the golden warmth of honey, creating a delicious treat to share with loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring to form a sticky dough.
3. Add honey, salt, and olive oil; mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape into a round loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Potato Leek Soup
Rich and comforting, this creamy potato leek soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spiced Mulled Cider
Warm up with a delicious Spiced Mulled Cider perfect for chilly fall and winter days!
Ingredients:
– 2 quarts apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
– Orange slices or cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Strain the mulled cider through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher or individual mugs.
4. If desired, add brown sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
5. Serve hot, garnished with orange slices or cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Herbs and Honey
Elevate your cheese platter game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the richness of brie, the sweetness of honey, and the freshness of herbs. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the cheese.
4. Drizzle honey over the cheese, followed by sprinkling thyme and rosemary leaves evenly.
5. Fold the pastry over the cheese, pressing gently to seal the edges.
6. Brush the pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley Recipe
Roast a colorful medley of root vegetables with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or add to salads, soups, and wraps for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large parsnip, peeled and cubed
- 1 small rutabaga, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Precise oven temperature: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prep vegetables: Place the cubed sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnip, and rutabaga on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Toss the vegetables with 2 tbsp of olive oil until they’re evenly coated.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time:
- Total cooking time: 45-50 minutes
- Roasting time per side: 22.5-25 minutes
Imbolc Seed Cake
As Imbolc approaches, this seed cake recipe honors the season’s themes of renewal and growth by incorporating sunflower seeds and a sweet, golden glaze. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and sunflower seeds.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Apple Cinnamon Porridge
Warm Apple Cinnamon Porridge: A Delicious and Comforting Breakfast Option
Start your day off right with this warm and comforting apple cinnamon porridge. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 apple, peeled and diced
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until the oats are well coated with the liquid.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge has thickened slightly.
4. If using honey or maple syrup, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
5. Add the diced apple and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Butter Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roast chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
4. Stuff the mixture under the chicken’s skin, making sure to spread it evenly.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Golden Milk Latte
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious drink that combines the benefits of turmeric, ginger, and coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy evening or morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of black pepper
– Steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy), to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the coconut milk over low heat.
2. Add turmeric powder and ground ginger; whisk until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add honey if desired.
4. Strain into a large mug.
5. Top with steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy) to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your soothing Golden Milk Latte, packed with anti-inflammatory properties and creamy goodness!
Savory Cheese and Onion Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. This savory pie is filled with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions and butter over medium-low heat until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Arrange cooked onions, remaining cheese, and beaten egg in the center of the pastry.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with cold water and cut a few slits on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Imbolc Lavender Shortbread Cookies
As Imbolc approaches, celebrate the return of light and life with these fragrant and buttery shortbread cookies infused with the calming essence of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in lavender buds and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Hearty Beef and Barley Stew
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple of warm, cozy meals. Tender beef and nutty barley are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Baked Apples with Walnuts and Raisins
Bake up a delicious treat with the natural sweetness of apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet raisins. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, cored)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cored apples, chopped walnuts, and golden raisins.
3. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the apple mixture.
4. Place the apple mixture in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until apples are tender.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize the sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Creamy Parsnip and Carrot Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet parsnips and carrots, creamy texture, and subtle spices. It’s an ideal cold-weather treat that can be enjoyed as a starter or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped parsnips and carrots, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Chai Tea Loaf
Warm up with this aromatic Spiced Chai Tea Loaf, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and black tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup brewed chai tea (cooled)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy.
4. Add brewed chai tea to the wet ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful focaccia infused with the richness of roasted garlic and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick dinner or as a snack to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves roasted garlic, minced (see note)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shape into a rectangle, and dimple with your fingers.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with roasted garlic and rosemary.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off 2 cloves of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Imbolc Sunflower Seed Brittle
As the wheel of the year turns towards spring, Imbolc is a time to honor the return of light and warmth. This sweet and crunchy sunflower seed brittle is a perfect treat to celebrate this season of renewal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt until dissolved.
4. Add sunflower seeds and stir until evenly coated.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Spinach and Feta Tart
Warm Spinach and Feta Tart Recipe
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and savory tart, perfect for a cozy gathering or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Arrange the cooked spinach mixture evenly on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle feta cheese over the spinach.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Place tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Sweeten up your vegetable game with these tender and flavorful maple glazed roasted carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and thyme (if using) until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While carrots roast, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 20-22 minutes, brush them evenly with the maple glaze and return to the oven.
7. Roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Imbolc Mulled Wine
As Imbolc marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, a warm and comforting mulled wine is the perfect way to celebrate this Celtic festival of light. This recipe combines rich flavors with a hint of spice to create a deliciously warming beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Combine the sliced orange and cinnamon sticks in a large pot.
2. Add the red wine, brown sugar, and water to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or glasses.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks and orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these delicious Imbolc recipes! This festive celebration deserves only the best, and we’ve got you covered. From warm and comforting dishes like Creamy Potato Leek Soup and Roasted Root Vegetable Medley, to sweet treats like Imbolc Honey Oat Bread and Imbolc Lavender Shortbread Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss out on the savory delights like Herbed Butter Roasted Chicken and Hearty Beef and Barley Stew. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 cozy recipes will make your Imbolc celebration truly unforgettable.
