Brrr! When the weather outside turns frightful, comfort foods taste delightful. Your soul craves satisfying, savory stews and gooey, cheesy casseroles. Who can resist a decadent dessert served warm directly from the oven? As you know, Illinois winters can linger for months and continuously feasting on calorie-laden comfort foods can pack on pounds. Problem solved. I lightened up four classic winter comfort foods without losing their traditional rich flavor. They’re my go-to recipes when my family wants a cozy meal with a healthy twist.
If you want a warm, cozy kitchen, make my Cranberry Beef Stew Over Noodles earlier in the day and let it simmer for a few hours. The aroma is just as soothing as the rich, savory taste. I like to add mushrooms, cranberries and pearl onions, serving it ladled over whole-grain egg noodles. It also pairs perfectly with the mashed cauliflower. Be sure to use a large Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid to maximize flavor and help tenderize the beef.
