It’s Soup Season – Keep it Simple and Cozy by Nicole Borland
It’s that time of year! The days are short and the temps are chilly – we’re all looking for something satiating, simple, and tasty when it comes to a meal. In this installment, let’s take a look at seasonal options as we transition from fall and focus on a method that can use up pretty much any pantry staple, vegetable, herb, or autumnal decoration (we’re looking at you, adorable pumpkins and squash) you have kicking around at home. It’s a bit hard to call this one a recipe – a method, rather, as mentioned – where you basically throw everything in a pot and let it simmer until your home smells glorious. If you gardened this summer, include all the potatoes, herbs, aromatics, and kale that are likely available in droves (or like most of us, buy them at your favourite OEV purveyor of all things fresh, of course! Shout out to the London Food Co-Op on this one). Toss in some grains, pasta, or rice and, you guessed it, you’ve got a stew going, Baby.
Ingredients 1 onion, diced Garlic cloves, as many as desired
3 cups mushrooms, sliced 4 medium potatoes, diced 1 can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1.5 cups barley (or rice, or pasta!) 4 cups kale, chopped 6 cups broth (veggie, chicken, beef, whatever!) Salt and pepper to taste Plus any other veggie and herb you’d like - carrots, celery, cabbage, thyme, sage - literally anything works in stew! Directions Heat oil on medium in a large pot, add onions and cook until softened, add the garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and saute until softened and slightly browned. Add the potatoes, beans, and stir to combine while seasoning to taste. Add the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the barley and continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes, checking for seasoning (adjust according to directions for rice or pasta, if using). After testing the barley for doneness, kill the heat and stir in the kale to wilt (about 3 minutes). From there, butter some bread, dole out a large bowl and enjoy!
Krown London - North 519-432-3337 565 Glasgow St., London, Ontario, N5W 6E5
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Old East Villager Nov-Dec 2025 • Page 13
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