It's winter and girls gotta eat and luckily this girl loves exploring in the kitchen.
As a single woman living in a big city, I needed to find things to keep me entertained and sustainably fed. Naturally, cooking was one of the things I was drawn to - it was also a chance to be creative. Sunday's became celebration days, a celebration of food, wine, music, self-care, and taking the day slowly. Preparing for the week is an inside job and it all starts with how I nourish my body when it comes to food. If you haven't made meal prep a habit yet, what the hell are you waiting for? It's your chance to try something new, be creative, and invest in your most important relationship, you.
Soup has easily become my favourite thing to make. I'm not only talking about winter meals but anytime meals. You will definitely see me eating soup in the middle of summer and loving every second of it. Does that make me a serial killer? No. I just really LOVE soup. Soups are not only are easy AF to make, but you can literally throw anything in a pot and call it a soup. It's a warm hug on a cold day or a sweaty one on a hot day. If you're single and looking for some lovin', this is one hug you can give to yourself all on your own - no partner required. My jam is to turn on some jazz music, pour a glass of red, and cut those onions with burning tears of joy. I know you know what I'm talking about...
So throw on the tunes, pour a glass of wine or other fancy beverage, and enjoy the process. Surprise! your one-pot healthy meals are set up for the entire week - no stress required.
Here are my taste-test-approved soup recipes that have gotten me through many lonely nights. They're 5 stars all around. Enjoy!
Simply Quinoa's Detox Tumeric Lentil Soup
This soup is my go-to when I feel like I've fallen off the health wagon and I need to get back on track. This hearty soup is packed with veggies and protein, essential for cleaning up your digestion and healing your liver. Let's just say it will clear out your tubes of any garbage that might be lying around. This soup is a must-try and you can fill up on this soup all you want - guilt-free!
The Kitchen Paper's Not-Soup Healthy Butter Chicken
I know this isn't a soup recipe but it's in the family for sure. I came across this one when I was craving Indian food but didn't want all the calories that came with it. This butter chicken is best made in a slow cooker but can also be made in a large pot. Because it uses greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, it still gives the dish the richness and decadence you're expecting when eating this saucy favourite. Don't be surprised if you're grabbing your crockpot instead of your phone for the food delivery app after trying this one!
Downshiftology's Carrot & Ginger Soup
This soup is delicious. It's simple, hearty, and great for an evening when you're feeling a little under the weather. I'm a big fan of ginger so I add a bit more than the recipe calls for and I use fresh instead of powder. I've made this soup a couple of times now and it never disappoints. It's rich in vitamins and minerals that boost your immune function and also chocked full of antioxidants.
Who Needs a Cape's Rustic Chicken Stew
You've heard a ton about beef stew but I've rarely heard of a good chicken stew. Ever since I traveled to Ireland and Scotland, I have been obsessed with hearty stews. I wanted to find one that was actually healthy and didn't affect my waistline after having 5 bowls. This stew only uses a bit of cornstarch as a thickener and the rest... is pure savoury chicken and vegetables. Bon appetit.
Whether you're a soup lover or not, or looking to pick up a hobby during quarantine, I highly encourage you to start exploring and experimenting in the kitchen. Find a recipe you'd like to try and get out that trusty pot you have collecting dust in your oven drawer. Add in a vegetable you haven't tried or a new fruit to add to a dessert dish. You'll be surprised how much you enjoy learning new things and trying new flavours. Being mindful & proactive when it comes to choosing a healthy diet is essential to self-care and showing your body and mind some big self-love. Not only that, I'm pretty sure your bank account will thank you for the break from Ubereats orders.
So get yourself in the kitchen, turn up the beats, and start cooking - it's time to show yourself some love by feeding your soul.
Want to start feeding your soul and embark on your inner journey? Let your adventure start here.
Love always,
Erin xo.