Autumn weather and comfort foods

In Virginia, our weather stays fairly warm until January. But this year, we’re actually getting some gorgeous fall colors. It’s hovering at about 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit (and I know that those folks who are accustomed to true winters, e.g. those who live in Chicago, are laughing at me because that’s considered summer weather there). The skies get darker and you just want to stay indoors.

For me, this is soup weather. Bring on the comfort foods, especially when it’s dark and rainy. We had baked potato soup yesterday, a family favorite. The recipe is below, if you want it.

Baked Potato Soup
1 medium onion, diced
1 stick of butter (1/2 c.)
1/3 c. flour
5 c.water
1/4 c. chicken bouillon granules
3/4 Tbsp. basil
1/2 Tbsp. tabasco sauce
1 c. instant mashed potato flakes
1 c. heavy cream
1 c. milk
6 large baked potatoes (I microwave mine and scoop out the insides)
grated cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onion to top it off.

Saute the onions in butter. While they’re cooking, combine in a large bowl the water, mashed potato flakes, bouillon, tabasco sauce, and basil. Set aside. Add the flour to the butter/onion mixture and stir frequently to combine it. When well-blended, add the water/bouillon mixture to the pot. Stir to prevent lumps from forming. Bring up to medium heat. Add milk and cream, then the baked potato chunks (no potato peel). I’ve found that the bouillon makes it salty enough so I don’t need to add any more. You can add white pepper if you wish. When it’s hot, serve in bowls with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions on top. Sliced French bread makes a nice side dish.

What are your favorite comfort foods in winter?