TIME FOR SOUP AND CORNBREAD

Aa the temperature drops and the nights continue
to grow longer, let's wrap ourselves in the aromas
of a comforting winter meal.....



Looking out from the library of the Maine House....

There is something romantic and peaceful about the glow
of candlelight.....

Enjoy the the recipes from Estelle's kitchen.....
it's all about family favorites



Here's a little clip of the boys in Denver.....
it was minus 7 degrees and the Air B&B had no heat...

Today's post is all about an easy but delicious
soup night, ending with a pudding pie.....

This is one of the best soups I have ever made..perfect for a cold night...
the boys ate two servings..it was that good!

ROASTED TOMATO BEAN AND SAUSAGE SOUP

2 cans (14.5 oz each) fire roasted tomatoes

- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 large yellow onion, diced

- 2 stalks celery, chopped

- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups vegetable broth
Smoked Sausage

- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder to taste

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 handful of fresh spinach leaves, optional

- Fresh basil for garnish, optional

1. In the basin of your slow cooker, combine the fire roasted tomatoes, both types of white beans, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic.

2. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to incorporate.

3. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give it another gentle stir to distribute the spices.

4. Tuck the bay leaves into the mixture, making sure they’re submerged so they can impart their flavor.

5. Set your slow cooker to low and let the soup cook for 7-8 hours, or switch it to high for a quicker cooking time of about 3-4 hours.

6. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and give the soup a good stir. If you’re using spinach, stir it in now and allow it to wilt in the hot soup for a few minutes.

NOTE; I added the smoked sausage as the boys love it! Adds great flavor too!

And yes, you can bake some delicious cornbread and add
some spice with jalapeño's!!

We ended the heartwarming meal with a chocolate pudding pie...



Just purchase a shortbread prepared pie crust..
pour in some warm cook and serve chocolate pudding
and top with sweetened whipped cream....

It's all about comfort at the table.....

Provide your family a warm space for the heart.....

as you entertain and celebrate the seasons.....

Who's ready for Spring?